Former India wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel has highlighted three key areas that Team India must focus on as they prepare to face South Africa in a crucial two-Test series starting November 14. The Proteas, currently in India for a full multi-format tour, will challenge a young Shubman Gill-led side across Tests, ODIs and T20Is.

India enters the series on the back of a confident 2-0 home win against the West Indies, but the stakes rise sharply against the reigning World Test Champions. With a youthful squad and new combinations still settling, this contest will test India’s adaptability and depth.

Speaking on JioStar, Patel highlighted three priorities for the hosts: a strong top-order performance, a wicket-taking return for Kuldeep Yadav, and identifying the right XI combination. “Expect a lot of runs from India’s top order. A comeback from Kuldeep Yadav, he will definitely take wickets in India. There are many discussions around combinations, so hopefully India find the right one,” he said.

ALSO READ: Gautam Gambhir Breaks His Silence On Arshdeep Singh’s Snub and Harshit Rana’s Rapid Rise

Sharing his predicted XI for the opening Test, Patel backed an aggressive batting lineup. “Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul will open. Sai Sudharsan at No. 3, Shubman Gill at No. 4, with Rishabh Pant slotting in at five. The tricky spot is No. 6. Then you have Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah,” he explained on Star Sports.

He added that India’s most significant selection headache revolves around the No. 6 role. “The question is whether you go with Nitish Reddy or Dhruv Jurel. With an early start in Kolkata, can Nitish play the third-seamer role? If he does, India can go with two seamers and load up with three spinners for the second innings.”

India’s top order was in excellent rhythm against the West Indies and will be hungry for runs against South Africa’s pace-heavy attack. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s recent form makes him a key weapon, while KL Rahul needs a strong outing to build confidence. Sai Sudharsan, who has earned genuine praise, will look to cement his spot with a composed knock.

ALSO READ: Amol Muzumdar Credits BCCI and WPL For India’s World Cup Triumph

Patel also believes Kuldeep Yadav will be central to India’s plans. The wrist-spinner was outstanding against the Windies, bagging four wickets in the first Test and eight in the second, including a five-wicket haul in Delhi. With spin expected to play a major role again, Kuldeep’s impact could shape the outcome of the series.