South Africa vs India 2018: What should be the starting XI for India in the second Test?

Middle Order

Cheteshwar Pujara

Pujara is the best Test batsman for India

Cheteshwar Pujara is the best Indian Test batsman and is one of the pillars of the batting lineup. He is expected to hold the fort for India in the second Test.

Virat Kohli (c)

The ever dynamic captain and one the best batsmen in the world, Virat Kohli is expected to do the bulk of the scoring in the second Test and give India a fighting chance.

Ajinkya Rahane

Losing 7 wickets for less than 100 in both innings warrants a place for an extra batsman. Ajinkya Rahane has a lot of experience in overseas conditions and is one of the best Indian batsmen when playing abroad. Even though his current form has been woeful, he should be drafted into the starting XI to strengthen the batting.

Rohit Sharma

Rohit was prolific in the recently concluded Test series against Sri Lanka and he deserves another chance even though he failed in the first match. There are no better alternatives on the bench either.