'Rahane cannot play the first match' - VVS Laxman predicts India's playing combination for South Africa Test series

According to former India cricketer, VVS Laxman, Shreyas Iyer should feature in the Playing XI ahead of Ajinkya Rahane in the first Test of India’s upcoming series against South Africa. Team India is scheduled to play three Test matches, as many ODIs and four T20Is against South Africa.

However, Rahane’s form has been a concerning factor for the Indian side. The batter hasn’t been able to pile up big runs lately and is experiencing a lean patch with the willow.  On the other hand, Shreyas Iyer made his Test debut in style in the Kanpur Test as he hit a century in the first innings. He then followed it up with an impressive half-century in the second innings. Laxman feels that Iyer batted exceptionally well in pressure conditions and should be given the confidence to continue his good form.

“According to me, Ajinkya Rahane cannot play in the first match. Continuity is very important, so I will play Shreyas Iyer because if you give someone two Test matches and the way he batted on debut under pressure. Iyer scored a century and a half-century, so I will give that continuity, the confidence that you want to give to a young batsman, I will definitely give that,” VVS Laxman said on Star Sports.

I will definitely include Hanuma Vihari: VVS Laxman 

The former India cricketer further reckoned that he would include Hanuma Vihari in the squad for the South Africa Tests.

“I will definitely include Hanuma Vihari in the squad because with what combination does Virat Kohli play. We have seen that the top five will be batters, Rishabh Pant at No.6 as a wicketkeeper-batsman,” Laxman said.

Laxman further added that Ravindra Jadeja comes in handy with his all-rounder abilities and his heroics with the bat even in overseas conditions cannot be taken lightly. He also opened up on India’s bowling unit and reckoned that the team should go with three fast bowlers and Ravi Ashwin.

“Jadeja can play as an all-rounder because he performs with the bat as well and you can’t take Jadeja lightly as a batsman anymore, even in overseas conditions. So Jadeja will be at No.7 and after that, four bowlers – three fast bowlers and Ravichandran Ashwin. So this will be the combination,” Laxman added.