Sri Lanka vs India 2017: India's probable playing XI for third Test

Middle order

Kohli's golden run as captain continues

The ever-dependable Cheteshwar Pujara has shown just how valuable he is to the Test side, hammering away another Test ton at Colombo to help amass a big first innings total. An uncertainty in the Test side just a year ago, Pujara has come a long way to become the team's batting mainstay.

Although his batting form might be a little indifferent, Virat Kohli has been ticking all the boxes with his captaincy. At Colombo, a false stroke brought about his downfall on 13, but the 28-year-old will look to finish the series on a high, in preparation for the upcoming home season.

Ajinkya Rahane's versatility is coming to the fore yet again: after showing his skill in the ODIs against the West Indies less than a month ago, Rahane is back among the runs in Tests as well. His century in the second Test, along with Pujara's ton, formed the bulk of India's first innings total.