England v India, Test series 2018: How will the Indian batsmen fare?

Wicketkeeper - Saha or Karthik?

Karthik was a part of India's XI for the Test against Afghanistan

Wriddhiman Saha's thumb injury forced the selectors to opt for Dinesh Karthik for the Afghanistan Test in June. The Men in Blue tried Parthiv Patel in South Africa but his ordinary keeping and batting failures allowed Karthik to play in the Afghanistan Test. However, Karthik failed to take his opportunity as he was run out for 4.

That said, Saha hasn't been in action since the IPL playoffs. And Karthik was India's leading run scorer in the 2007 England tour, a stat that may help him get a nod over India's regular recent keeper.

Saha has never played in England whereas Karthik averages 43.83 with the bat there, albeit he played as a batsman in 2007. Both the Indian wicketkeepers would be behind the stumps for the first time in Test cricket in England, and they are both likely to make the squad.

The team combination would be crucial in picking the wicketkeeper. Saha is likely to miss out if the management decides to play five bowlers.