South Africa vs India 1st Test: Predicted Playing XI
What's the story
After a long stretch of playing matches on home turf, Team India looks to kick off their first away assignment against South Africa with the 1st Test in Cape Town. Kohli & Co. seem to be the best and a much-more balanced Indian contingent, in a long time, to tour the African continent. Let's look at the probable playing XI of both the teams.
India probable XI
Here's how the Indian line up could look like
With reports of expected lack of bounce at Newlands, Cape Town, we could see the inclusion of Ravichandran Ashwin. Ravindra Jadeja, who is suffering from viral, is doubtful to be a part of the playing XI. India probable XI - Murali Vijay, Shikhar Dhawan, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma.
Dale Steyn doubtful
South Africa's probable XI
South African's veteran bowler, Dale Steyn, is unlikely to play the opening test while AB de Villiers's place is almost certain in playing XI. If selected, he will play the 5-day format after almost 2 years. The lineup could include- Dean Elgar, Aiden Markram, Hashim Amla, Faf du Plessis, de Villiers, Temba Bavuma, de Kock, Vernon Philander, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Morne Morkel.
Not much for spinners
Pitch behaviour
The first match of this series would set tone for the remainder; the Newlands wicket has been a much discussed topic in the recent days especially amidst the drought conditions prevailing in the region. The curator indicated that it was not a two-spinner pitch and the recent matches show how it could vary from being a flat track to pacer's paradise.
Data
India's record at Cape Town
India have played four Tests at Newlands, Cape Town- lost two and drawn two. Also, only one Indian player has ever managed to score a century here, Sachin Tendulkar in India's 2010-11 tour, 3rd Test (146).