Former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin has asserted that the Indian cricket team’s real test will be the two-month-long tour of South Africa. India team is currently hosting Sri Lanka, who were beaten across all formats in their own den earlier this year.

During a media interaction in the inaugural Jagmohan Dalmiya lecture, Azhar said, “The Sri Lanka series will be challenging but India’s real test will be against South Africa.”

The underdogs Sri Lanka might help Indian to practice for the grueling tour to South Africa, which will comprise of 3 Tests, 6 ODIs and 3 T20Is in January-February next year.

Azharuddin also hailed praise for India skipper Virat Kohli, he said, “He is outstanding. The way he is leading from the front is good to see.”

The Hyderabad lad had a special connection with the Eden Gardens and whenever he batted here he seemed to be possessed by an urge to do well. He explained, “Whatever I have, when you talk of memories at the Eden, they are only happy ones. I like this ground a lot.”