How India could line up in the first T20I against South Africa

#5 Suresh Raina

Considering India's middle-order woes and his recent performances, Suresh Raina might slot right into the side in the T20I series. In the recently-concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, the southpaw finished as the leading run-scorer with 259 runs, including a knock of 126 runs off 59 balls against Bengal.

Furthermore, he can be the much-needed sixth bowling option for Kohli.

#6 MS Dhoni (wk)

The Indian wicket-keeper, who batted at no.4 in the last T20I series, is likely to slip down to his original spot considering the return of Virat Kohli, who was not in the squad previously, and the presumed comeback of Suresh Raina. However, changing the batting order is possible depending on the circumstances, especially in the shortest format.

#7 Hardik Pandya

The Indian team management has planned to invest heavily in Hardik Pandya, who is a rare breed in the country, and he is likely to be an integral part of the team looking ahead to the World Cup. His bowling has been impressive of late, picking up AB de Villiers' wicket on two occasions in the ODI series.

He also picked up six wickets in three matches against Sri Lanka. The 24-year-old's batting has been a concern though and he will be looking to turn the tables this time around.