India's possible Test squad to face West Indies

Middle order

Captain Ajinkya Rahane?

Test specialists Cheteshwar Pujara is likely to bat at number 3 and Ajinkya Rahane will bat at number 5. Since the series is taking place in India, the team management might decide to go in with six frontline batsmen and Hanuma Vihari, who did well on debut in the fifth Test against the Poms might retain his place in the XI.

Skipper Virat Kohli is recovering from a back injury and has already been rested from the ongoing Asia Cup. With the tour of Australia and more important fixtures coming up, it won't be a surprise if he is rested for the two-match Test series as well.

In his absence, Karun Nair is likely to bat at number 4 while Ajinkya Rahane will lead the side. Shreyas Iyer could be in consideration as the backup batsman.

Probable picks: Cheteshwar Pujara, Karun Nair, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari and Shreyas Iyer