New Delhi: India will take on Afghanistan in the first of a three-match T20I series at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday, with the world No. 1 T20I side beginning its preparations ahead of the Asian Games.
The match will also mark an important outing for several Indian players, including pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who is returning to international action after an injury layoff.
India vs Afghanistan 1st T20I: Date and venue
The first T20I between India and Afghanistan will be played on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.
The match is scheduled to begin at 7:30 pm IST, with the toss taking place 30 minutes before the start of play.
India captain Shreyas Iyer and Afghanistan skipper Ibrahim Zadran posed with the series trophy ahead of the opening encounter, which has been billed as the Friendship Cup T20 Series.
Jasprit Bumrah returns to focus
India captain Shreyas Iyer on Saturday highlighted the importance of giving Jasprit Bumrah regular match practice following his return from an injury layoff.
Bumrah was included in India’s initial squad for the three-match series but was required to undergo a fitness assessment after missing recent international matches because of a recurring left-knee injury.
Iyer said Bumrah needs regular game time and confidence as he works his way back into competitive cricket.
His availability will be closely watched as India prepare for the upcoming Asian Games, with the experienced fast bowler expected to play an important role in the team’s plans.
India vs Afghanistan live telecast
For viewers in India, the first T20I will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network.
The match will also be available free on DD Bharati, with Doordarshan Sports confirming that the game can be watched on DD Free Dish.
This gives viewers an additional free television option for following India’s opening match against Afghanistan.
India vs Afghanistan live streaming
The India vs Afghanistan first T20I will be available for live streaming on the FanCode app and website.
Fans who prefer watching the match online can therefore follow the action through FanCode from the scheduled start time.
India vs Afghanistan 1st T20I: Complete details
- Match: India vs Afghanistan, 1st T20I
- Date: September 13, 2026
- Venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi
- Start time: 7:30 pm IST
- Toss: 7:00 pm IST
- TV telecast: Sony Sports Network
- Free TV telecast: DD Bharati on DD Free Dish
- Live streaming: FanCode app and website
- India captain: Shreyas Iyer
- Afghanistan captain: Ibrahim Zadran
The three-match series provides India and Afghanistan with valuable T20 preparation ahead of the Asian Games. For India, the opening game will also offer an opportunity to assess the returning Bumrah and build momentum at the start of the series.