South Africa vs India 2018: India's probable playing 11 for first T20I

Middle-order

Can South Africa do anything to stop Kohli in the T20Is at least?

Virat Kohli

South Africa have simply tried everything they could have to get rid of Virat Kohli. So far, all their plans have been as successful as a kid trying to convince his parents that leaving him alone at home is a good idea. Right now, the only real option they have is hope, and pray that their prayers get answered in the T20I series.

Suresh Raina

Impressive form in the recently-concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy meant that Suresh Raina has got another opportunity to represent India after a year out of the squad. India's all-time leading run-getter in T20s is looking to cement his place in the side and the lack of solid alternatives in the middle-order might just give him the perfect chance.

Manish Pandey

India have tried plenty of players in the middle-order but no one has really managed to stake their claim for the spot in the side. Manish Pandey will be hoping that he gets his chance in the T20I series and having played an integral part in the T20I series against Sri Lanka, he might get another chance in South Africa.

MS Dhoni

MS Dhoni has been simply sensational behind the stumps but there are still question marks about where he exactly fits in with the middle-order that has proven to be flexible not by design but due to necessity. It might soon be time to try out a new keeper in T20s at least, to ensure that India are covered for the future once Dhoni calls it a day but for the SA series, Dhoni will don the gloves once again.