Former cricketer Ajay Jadeja feels the first Test against South Africa in Cape Town on Friday, Team India will get the best chance to record a victory in the three-match series.
Unlike in the past, India will play their first Test in Cape Town and then head to more seaming tracks in Centurion and Johannesburg for the remaining two Tests. Although Jadeja asserted that the tour will not be easy for teh visitors, he said Cape Town gives them a bright chance to start the tour on a confident note.
As quoted in PTI, Jadeja said, “It will be a great challenge. A lot of people expect us to win easily there but I don’t think it would be that easy. Yes, we are at a
better side than what we used to be in the past. But overseas is always a different ballgame. You see that when other teams come here it is the same for them.”
He further added, “The first Test match is probably going to be the most important and India are lucky to play in Cape Town this time. Normally we play in Cape Town at the end of the series and by that time we are beaten mentally. Luckily we will be playing on a pitch that gives us the best chance to win because that’s the one that turns, that’s the one that gives a little help. It’s very hot out there and I believe it might turn. So, hopefully, we will start well and have a better tour this time.”
Jadeja also asserted that the Indian team management needs to pick an apt combination of bowlers and stick to them. He said, “This time they have great expectations. India is thinking of winning the series on the back of their bowling prowess. But it remains to be seen who they play because, in the last one, one and a half year I have not seen same five boys play together.”
Although Ajay has his own issues with the BCCI, he feels for the messy situation the Cricket Board finds itself in. He said, “I feel sad, I have my own battles with them. Last couple of years you don’t know who is BCCI. It’s been an organization which is there for a very long time. Mostly good things have been done by them otherwise you won’t have cricket where it is today. Yes, there is a lot of things that need to change, many things they could have done better. That doesn’t mean they are the worst in the country.”
