India's strongest Test XI under Virat Kohli

Pacers

Mohammed Shami

Mohammed Shami

The pace department had several star performers for Team India. But none enjoyed success like Shami, who made his Test debut against West Indies in November 2013 under MS Dhoni. Virat Kohli was well aware of Shami's talents when he took over the reigns and had lot of faith in his pacer, who in turn did not disappoint his skipper.

Shami has emerged as India's leading pacer in Tests under Kohli with 75 scalps in 21 matches, that includes two five-wicket hauls. The Bengal speedster has been consistent in his line and length across different venue, has no doubt been a wicket-taking bowler for Kohli's men in the past three-four years.

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Umesh Yadav

Umesh Yadav

Umesh, who made his Test debut back in November 2011 against West Indies combined well with Shami to torment the opposition with pace, swing and bounce. Capable of bowling constantly over 140 kph, Yadav too has been consistent with the red cherry for Kohli's men in Tests.

Even in the spin-friendly Indian tracks, Yadav was able to get high amount of purchase- an indication of his talent and ability to pick up wickets at a regular interval. The Vidarbha pacer is the second best pacer for Team India behind Shami, with 64 wickets in 27 matches.