Nagpur: India’s defence of their no 1 Test rankings could be seriously under threat with star middle-order batsman VVS Laxman still doubtful for the first test starting tomorrow in Nagpur as he has not fully recovered from his finger injury.

The 35 year old Hyderabadi who has played 109 Test for India split his finger against Bangladesh in the first test at Chittagong.

Tewam India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni confirmed this saying, “There is uncertainty over Laxman at the moment".

"He batted in the nets but we are still waiting on the final word on him. He will share his thoughts with the physio and based on that we will take a decision on his availability," Dhoni added.

India are already without key middle order batsman Rahul Dravid and Yuvraj Singh for the rest of the series and Laxman’s absence in the middle could put extra pressure in Sachin Tendulkar’s shoulder as India could field a new look side for the Test.

If Laxman failed to make the playing XI on Saturday morning Rohit Sharma could be handed a Test debut along with Subramaniam Badrinath and with Murali Vijay only 3 Test old the strong South African bowling line-up would certainly Test the inexperience Indian middle-order.

Though skipper MS Dhoni sounded confident saying, “Injuries are beyond our control. We are going to miss our experienced players but at the same time their absence provides an opportunity for the youngsters to step in and score runs”.

"It will be a challenge but we have openers who have done well against various oppositions and there is no reason why they cannot do that again. There will be pressure but we are now used to playing under pressure," Dhoni added.

A drawn or a series victory for India will consolidate their position at the top but South Africa have to win the series to snatch top spot from India.

The second and final Test is scheduled to be held at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on February 14.