The New Nation - Internet Edition

BBC Online

India skipper Anil Kumble and fast bowler Ishant Sharma face fitness checks ahead of the second Test against South Africa in Ahmedabad today (Thursday).

Kumble suffered a groin strain during the first Test, while Sharma is still recovering from injuries picked up on the recent tour to Australia.

"We will wait until Thursday morning to take a final call on who all are fit for the Test match," said Kumble.

India will definitely be without Sachin Tendulkar because of injury.

And even though Tendulkar was dismissed for a duck during an otherwise high-scoring opening match in Chennai (Madras), which ended in a draw, the tourists believe his absence creates an opportunity for them.

Tendulkar only needs another 172 runs to become the highest scorer in Test history and South Africa coach Mickey Arthur said: "You lose a guy like that, it takes a huge chunk out of the team.

"It will be interesting to see what India will come up with; whether they stick to the plan of playing six batsmen or whether they decide to play five batsmen, [wicket-keeper] Mahendra Dhoni at six and five bowlers."