With senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli already in Australia for the upcoming T20 World Cup, the selectors have picked quite a few youngsters in India’s ODI squad for the ongoing series against South Africa.

Under the captaincy of veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan, the fringe players are in action in the home series versus South Africa. However, Proteas leg-spinner Keshav Maharaj still feels that the Indian ODI team is world class.

“I would not call it a second string Indian side. India have so much talent that they can field four-five proper international sides," Maharaj said on the eve of the second ODI in Ranchi.

“Having said that, a lot of the guys have IPL and have international experience. There are world class performers out there."

South Africa are leading the ODI series 1-0 after winning in Lucknow on October 6. The visitors had lost the T20I leg of the tour 2-1.

“It’s always nice to play well against India. Obviously, you want to prepare yourself. They have a world class batting lineup," Maharaj said.

Left-arm spinner Tabraiz Shamsi looked out of sorts in the series opener as he returned with the figures of 1/89 from his eight overs.

But Maharaj backed Shamsi, saying the Lucknow ODI was a rare off day for the latter.

“I don’t think he really had a poor outing. Figures don’t exactly tell you the true reflection of the way someone bowled.

“The Indian batters had to take on someone and unfortunately it was him on the day. I thought he held his nerve really well at the back-end," Maharaj said.

“Obviously, picked up crucial wickets to open up. I don’t think his form is a concern. It’s only a matter of time till he bounces back. We know what he is capable of."

(With PTI inputs)