Shikhar Dhawan and Quinton de Kock could miss the first Test between India and South Africa at Newlands. 

According to Times India, Dhawan was seen entering the team hotel limping with his left ankle heavily strapped.

‘Shikhar Dhawan’s ankle is being assessed. The physio is yet to give any report to the national selectors. As of now, he is travelling with the team,’ said a senior BCCI official. ‘However, it can’t be ascertained whether he will be available for the first Test match or not.’

KL Rahul is expected to open the batting with Murali Vijay if Dhawan is declared unfit.

India are confident about claiming their first Test win in South Africa.

ALSO READ: ‘We’re feeling confident’

De Kock, on the other hand, was replaced by AB de Villiers as wicketkeeper during South Africa’s innings and 120-run victory over Zimbabwe in the day-night Test at St George’s Park, after picking up an injury while batting.

CSA has yet to confirm the availability of its star wicketkeeper-batsman.

Dhawan has scored 550 runs in five Tests at an average of 68.75 in 2017, while De Kock has been far from his best, scoring 619 runs in 12 matches at an average of 36.41.

Play is set to start on Friday, 5 January at 10:00.