The Indian cricket team has landed in South Africa for a comprehensive series encompassing T20Is, ODIs, and Tests. The action-packed schedule kicks off with a three-match T20I series commencing on December 10, followed by an equally riveting three-match ODI series starting from December 17. However, the true test awaits both teams in the two-match Test series set to begin on December 26, where crucial points for the World Test Championship (WTC) are at stake.
India faces a significant challenge in the Test series, aiming to secure their maiden Test series victory on South African soil. In eight previous attempts, the Men in Blue have never managed a series win and only achieved a draw once in 2010 (1-1). Led by Rohit Sharma, the Indian side is poised to script history, but the odds are stacked against them.
Jacques Kallis, the legendary South African all-rounder, recognizes the formidable task for India in beating the Proteas at home. Kallis anticipates a closely contested series, acknowledging the contrasting conditions at SuperSport Park, Centurion, and Newlands, Cape Town.
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“This is a good Indian team but South Africa is tough to beat in South Africa. Centurion will probably suit South Africa and Newlands will probably suit India. It will be a good series, and it will come down to one or two sessions that one team might play better than the other. It would be a closely-fought contest,” commented Jacques Kallis, as quoted by Hindustan Times.
The absence of senior pros Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara in the Test squad places added responsibility on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to anchor the batting lineup and mentor the younger players. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal have been chosen over the experienced duo.
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In the limited-overs formats, Suryakumar Yadav will lead the T20I side, while KL Rahul assumes captaincy duties for the ODI team. The Indian contingent is set for a challenging tour, and the outcome of the Test series will be closely watched as India endeavors to rewrite history on South African soil.
