Will it be Virat Kohli’s preferred five-bowler template which features all-rounder Shardul Thakur or will an extra batter in Ajinkya Rahane come in keeping in view the bouncy conditions? As the Indian cricket team gears up for the opening Test against South Africa in Centurion from December 26, there are arguments both for and against the two propositions. There is also a third angle to this combination jigsaw puzzle and that’s Hanuma Vihari, who may or may not be considered for a start on the Boxing Day.

The Indian team, for the past three days, have been practising at the Supersport Park in Centurion and Cricket South Africa has provided the visitors an opportunity to practice on the centre wicket in the main stadium. Centre wicket practice before a Test match in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) countries is a rarity and the skills training (net session) always happens in adjacent area, especially Down Under.