SA vs IND: Possible India Playing 11 for 1st Test

India Playing 11: After a morale-boosting series victory over New Zealand, India will tour South Africa for a grueling three-match Test series. India, ranked the number one side in Test cricket have achieved immense success in the longest format of the game. However, South Africa still remains an unconquered land, as India have never won a Test series till date.

After being rested for the home series against New Zealand, India will welcome the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Rishabh Pant to their squad. Virat Kohli will lead the Indian side once again, whereas, Rohit Sharma has been named Kohli’s deputy ahead of the Proteas tour.

Team News

Rohit Sharma has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury, as a result, Mayank Agarwal will open the innings with KL Rahul. Shubman Gill is unavailable for selection due to injury.
Ajinkya Rahane’s place in the squad has come under serious scrutiny after poor performances in the recent past. If KL Rahul opens the batting, we could see Hanuma Vihari or Shreyas Iyer batting at number five.
Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the series due to a ligament tear. Jadeja’s absence will leave a huge hole in India’s lineup, as they might have to do without any extra batter or bowler.
With Axar Patel also out injured, Ravi Ashwin will be India’s lead spinner during the South African tour.
Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami will walk back into the playing 11, with Mohammed Siraj being the third pacer.

Also Read: IND vs NZ: Virat Kohli Hilarious Stump Mic Comment on Umpiring Goes VIRAL – WATCH

IND Playing 11 (likely)

Five players have been ruled out of South African tour. This includes Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, Rahul Chahar, Rohit Sharma and Axar Patel. Mayank Agarwal and KL Rahul are expected to open the innings, with Cheteshwar Pujara coming at number three. Pujara has not been in the best form off-late and the pressure will be on him to deliver.

Virat Kohli is a sure-shot starter at number four, with a lot of possibilities for the number five position. Hanuma Vihari, Shreyas Iyer and Ajinkya Rahane could bat at number five. Ajinkya Rahane averages 57.53 against South Africa, which could give him the edge over other contenders.

Rishabh Pant will come in at number six, and will also keep behind the wickets. Jadeja’s absence means that the number 7 spot will be depend as to whether India go with an extra batter or bowler. Ravi Ashwin, Siraj, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah will be included in the bowling department of Team India.

IND Playing 11