Mumbai, May 19: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced the Indian squads for the upcoming Test and ODI series against Afghanistan, with Punjab pacer Gurnoor Brar earning his maiden national call-up.
India are scheduled to host Afghanistan for a one-off Test beginning on June 6, followed by a three-match ODI series on June 14, 17 and 20.
Brar’s inclusion has drawn attention following his consistent performances in domestic cricket and impressive rise through the ranks despite not featuring in a match during the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 season for Gujarat Titans.
The Punjab fast bowler made his first-class debut in 2022, but it was the 2024-25 domestic season that proved to be a turning point in his career. He grabbed attention with a five-wicket haul against Bihar, conceding just 14 runs, and finished the season with 33 wickets from 12 matches.
Brar also impressed in the shorter format, emerging as the leading wicket-taker in the Sher-e-Punjab T20 League with 22 wickets in 11 matches.
His IPL journey began in 2019 when he worked as a net bowler for Mumbai Indians. He later made his IPL debut for Punjab Kings in 2023 before being signed by Gujarat Titans for ₹1.3 crore at the 2025 IPL auction.
Speaking earlier about his association with India captain Shubman Gill, Brar had said Gill recognised his bowling talent during their Under-19 cricket days and helped him secure opportunities at the district level.
The upcoming Afghanistan series will now provide the young pacer an opportunity to prove himself at the international level.
