Back in the zone

Since Sachin’s fitness status is unknown, it’s time for replacements to put their hands up. And Kaif is first in the queue. Has already had fruitful Deodhar and Challenger Trophies. A good run in the big one will shut the door on the other hopefuls

Gautam Gambhir (North)

There’s a faint question-mark over who will partner Sehwag in the Tests against Pakistan; Gambhir’s task will be to wipe that out once and for all. He has the chance against one of India’s best attacks featuring West Zone captain Zaheer Khan

Yuvraj Singh (North)

He wants to bat in the middle-order and, finally, so does his captain. All that’s needed is some runs. Here then comes his best chance to overtake Kaif for that slot

Ashish Nehra (North)

Just back from injury, not yet hit his full stride. During the Deodhar in Mumbai the batsmen found him easy to handle. With Irfan’s and Balaji’s fitness yet to be tested fully, this is his chance to reclaim that new ball for India with Zaheer

Zaheer Khan (West)

Currently on fire, needs some long spells in a first-class match to keep the rhythm going. Was the best bowler in Deodhar but is still susceptible to breakdown from overload. So needs to keep a check on the number of overs he’s bowling

Parthiv Patel (West)

The chairman of selectors has noted his improvement, now it’s time for some results. What better than keeping in the first star-studded first-class match of the season? Every move of his will be scanned and if he does well, it may force Dinesh Kaarthick to raise his game