Durban: The Indians, it appears, are in a dilemma over whether to retain the winning XI or effect a change at the very top of the order.

“It’s a tough call as Wasim Jaffer hasn’t been getting runs... In fact, Virender Sehwag hasn’t done much either... At the same time, there are some who’re arguing that the winning combination must not be disturbed,” somebody connected with the selection process on tour told The Telegraph.

Speaking on Wednesday, the gentleman added: “There’s also the issue of Munaf Patel... If he does well in the two-day game here, then he has to come into the reckoning... In that case Vikram Rajvir Singh may have to sit out... Then, again, changing the winning XI is going to come up...”

Coach Greg Chappell, however, is clear about not “risking” Munaf (who hasn’t played for almost a month owing to an ankle injury). “We’ve got to handle him carefully as he’s an important member of this group... Let’s see how he shapes up in match-conditions, but I won’t be looking only at short-term benefits,” is what he’d said in Johannesburg.

The two-dayer (from Friday) is against a KwaZulu-Natal Invitation XI comprising some first-class cricketers and will be held at the Crusaders Club. The local outfit is going to be captained by Rivash Gobind.

For obvious reasons, it will be important for opener Gautam Gambhir, who has just been having nets — outdoors and indoors — since arriving over a fortnight ago.

Except for a run on the beach (which is metres away from the team hotel) and volleyball there itself, Wednesday was a day off cricket.