Nehra, Harbhajan on injured list

India go into the first Test against South Africa on Saturday with question marks over the fitness of two key bowlers -- Ashish Nehra and Harbhajan Singh.

Nehra sprained his left ankle while bowling in the nets on Friday while Harbhajan is said to have developed an infection due to wearing someone else's abdomen guard. Both are doubtful starters though a final decision will only be made on the morning of the match.

Meanwhile, it is likely that Rahul Dravid will open the innnings instead of rookie left-hander Connor Williams. With the only practice game ahead of the Test, the three- day match against South Africa 'A' in Chatsworth, Durban, having been washed out, Williams has not faced a single delivery since joining the Test team in South Africa. Thus, the team management feels it will be a folly to let him open straightaway in the Test.

It is also learnt that Delhi middle-order batsman Virender Sehwag will make his Test debut.

The latest developments mean India will go into the match with six specialist batsmen but the exact bowling composition will depend on fitness of Nehra and Harbhajan.

India's tour of South Africa : Complete coverage

Mail Cricket Editor