5 reasons why Afghanistan could be a threat to India

India's preparation is far from ideal

Not against the red cherry, please.

After two months worth of IPL grind, most of the Indian squad will find themselves rusty for the format, especially the likes of skipper Ajinkya Rahane, Ravi Ashwin and Lokesh Rahul who have been distanced from first-class cricket ever since the tour of South Africa came to a conclusion. The long break coupled with the abrupt change of formats for these players will test their acclimatization abilities. Twice has it happened, in 2011 and then in 2014, when India went to play Tests in England right after the IPL and were found wanting against the sudden change in what the game demanded from them.

Also, in the media statements lately, the players have mostly given the impression of focusing on the tour of England and even as far as the World Cup next year, while much hasn't been said about their immediate assignment. With the regular captain and wicket-keeper, the two men who channelize all the on-field communication, set to miss the match, the Indian team will not be in their best state of mind, an aspect that if exploited by Afghanistan, could cause an upset.