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

Middle-order

Two years later, a more experienced Kohli returns to Sri Lanka

Virat Kohli the batsman is always under the scanner, but this time around, more eyes will be on his captaincy, as he returns to the land where his Test leadership first took flight. A scratchy bout of indifferent form was kicked away with a century in the final ODI against West Indies, and the 28-year-old might should take little time to settle back in the whites (for the first time since his shoulder injury in March).

Even a Karun Nair triple ton wasn’t enough to usurp Ajinkya Rahane from his Test spot, such is his value in the team. A rewarding ODI series against West Indies has ensured that Rahane is swimming in top form as the Indian team readies for the Test season.

He played three Tests against the hosts in 2015, but apart from one century, couldn’t exactly get going, averaging a shade below 30. Trust him to come good this time around, with a successful run of form backing him.

India’s primary keeping choice ever since MS Dhoni departed, Wriddhiman Saha has proved, time and again, why he is much more than just a compact wicket-keeper. His more than useful batting skills have been crucial for several lower order contributions, but he might have to push towards compiling bigger scores, with age catching up with him quickly and other younger candidates (read Rishabh Pant) snapping at his heels.