The Men in Blue have landed in South Africa, gearing up to clash with the Proteas across white ball and red ball formats in a highly anticipated series. Commencing from December 10, both teams are set to engage in a gripping three-match T20I series, followed by an equally competitive three-game ODI series starting on December 17. However, the spotlight will truly shine on the two-match Test series starting from December 26, crucial for accruing points in the World Test Championship (WTC).
India’s historical record in South Africa looms large as they’ve never clinched a Test series in eight attempts, with a solitary draw in 2010 (1-1). With history beckoning, the Rohit Sharma-led side is determined to alter this narrative. Jacques Kallis, the revered South African all-rounder, acknowledges the challenge.
“This is a good Indian team, but South Africa is tough to beat in South Africa… It would be a closely-fought contest,” Kallis was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.
As the stage is set, the absence of senior pros Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara in the Test squad has raised eyebrows, with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal securing their spots instead. This places added responsibility on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who will shoulder the batting lineup’s weight and mentor the young talents.
The Test series will kick off at SuperSport Park, Centurion, from December 26, followed by the second Test at Newlands, Cape Town, starting January 03.
Notably, Suryakumar Yadav takes the helm of the T20I squad, while KL Rahul will lead the ODI team, adding to the intriguing dynamics of India’s lineup across formats. As the teams gear up for this challenging series, the narrative is set for an enthralling clash where experience will meet youthful exuberance in the quest for cricketing glory.
