India's strongest Test XI for England tour
India will have a tough task on their hands as they face England in a marathon five-match Test series in a few months' time. The Indian Test side has improved leaps and bounds under the leadership of Virat Kohli which saw them rise to the top of the ICC Test rankings. However, their away record isn’t impressive and to be a top side they have to deliver in challenging conditions.
India didn’t have the best of starts to their streak of away tours, as they ended up losing the Test series 2-1 against South Africa. A couple of selection blunders and the lack of contribution from the top order batsmen cost them the series. Nonetheless, India came out victorious in the final Test under strenuous conditions which would’ve rejuvenated the side.
To face England in their own backyard, India have to get the playing combinations right. Let’s have a look at the best playing eleven.
Openers - KL Rahul and Murali Vijay
When it comes to the opening slot, it’s a toss-up between Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul with Murali Vijay being the constant. India’s best bet is to go with KL Rahul and Murali Vijay as they are well equipped to excel in English conditions.
Opening the innings, especially in England conditions isn’t an easy task, as the Duke ball darts around for a long time and these two need to provide a solid start and put their side in a strong position. Murali Vijay, having the experience of playing in England before, will stay patient and wait for the right deliveries to go after, whilst KL Rahul will be itching to take the aggressive route as he is a natural stroke maker