South Africa’s opening batter Aiden Markram admitted that they will have their work cut out against a potent Indian Test team in the upcoming three-match Test series. India has never savored success on South African soil and they will look to conquer the Proteas for the first time.

In fact, India will begin the contest as favorites against South Africa as they have been a consistent Test unit while playing away from home. India has defeated Australia in their last two Downunder tours and also lead by 2-1 against England.

Since South Africa is in the rebuilding phase, India will look to take advantage and create history while playing in the Rainbow nation.

The 27-year-old Markram told IOL Sport: “Naturally, we want to beat India. Their Test side and their white-ball teams are up there with the very best. It is going to be a massive challenge for us. It is something we are going to put a lot of emphasis on in terms of getting a positive result.”

Markram feels it will be crucial for their team to put enough runs on the board against a formidable Indian bowling line-up. The flamboyant batter believes it will be imperative for him and Dean Elgar to lay down the foundation of a big score for their middle order.

“Personally, I think it is about setting up a very good foundation for the team with Dean Elgar. If you can get off to good scores upfront against the better team it does sort of calm things down so they can come in and do their thing. That is where I am at. The focus will definitely be about getting a positive result against India, although obviously understanding that they are a powerhouse side,” he said.

Meanwhile, Markram was in red-hot form in the T20 World Cup 2021 as he scored 162 runs in five matches at an impressive average of 54 and a blistering strike rate of 145.94. Thus, Markram will look to continue his form.

The first Test match between South Africa and India will be played at Johannesburg from December 17.