A series win over Afghanistan is still not counted among the grandstand cricketing feats, but a clutch of players will be eager to achieve that in the Indian city of Indore on Sunday in the alternate T20I as it can turn them into contenders from bystanders.
It's also imperative for Jitesh Sharm, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel to produce a defining game against the Afghans to keep themselves within the sight of selectors as the move to find a perfect team for the T20 World Cup has gathered pace.
Having secured a 1-0 lead with six wickets in the first game at Mohali, India look to further solidify their position. In the frequently fickle selection process, Jitesh, 30, would know veritably well that only constant players can help him save that frontrunner status.
Tilak Varma has a similar situation. The left-hander had excellently launched his T20I career last year, making 39, 51, and 49 not out against the West Indies in a three-match series.
After missing out on the 50-over World Cup with an injury, Axar now appears to be back in form in both red and white ball formats. On Friday, the left arm spinner was included in the Indian team for the first two tests against England and he sailed with a fine spell at the PCA Auditorium on Thursday night as well.
Sundar, too, has earned a recall but has not set the stage ablaze so far on his return. He'll also eye a change in the second match. However, it'll be immature to take the Afghans for granted. They've the desire to hurt India on their day.
