Need help how to race Templar!

Hey guys, I have been trying to switch from Shadow to Templar for the races. But it seems to me with my play so far that Shadow is faster to race with even with the Poison Arrow and Fire Trap nerfs?

I have yet to try the Cleave build, I think next race I'll do that. Do most Templars make a Duelist at start of race for Cleave?

Need any help for what kind of gear to be looking for. And what kind of order one should use for the Passive Skill Tree.

Thanks!