Glenn McGrath has picked Indian cricketers Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin in his Test Team of the Year for 2016, with the former being named as the captain.

Kohli led India in 12 Tests this year, winning nine, drawing three and losing none.

Speaking to cricket.com.au, the former Aussie fast bowler explained why he selected Kohli as the captain ahead of the likes of Steve Smith and Kane Williamson who also feature in the team.

“I think when he (Kohli) is captain, it really lifts his game and I think he’s do very well captaining this team,” said McGrath.

Pakistan leg-spinner Yasir Shah also finds a place in McGrath’s XI. In 2016, Shah has taken 45 wickets in 10 Tests with two 10-wicket match-hauls to his name.

While Rangana Herath has also had a brilliant year with the ball, the 46-year-old preferred a “off-spin/leg-spin combination”.

MCGRATH’S XI

David Warner (Australia), Joe Root (England), Virat Kohli (India) (C), Steve Smith (Australia), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Jonny Bairstow (England) (WK), Ben Stokes (England), Ravichandran Ashwin (India), Mitchell Starc (Australia), Kagiso Rabada (South Africa), Yasir Shah (Pakistan).

12th man – Stuart Broad (England).