The first Test at Cape Town between India and South Africa ended in the favor of the hosts as the Indian batsmen struggled to get runs on the board and chase a target of 208 in the fourth innings.

However, legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar reckons that the key to winning the battle against the Proteas bowlers will be patience. Asserting that this is India’s best chance to win a series in South Africa, Tendulkar stated that stitching partnerships will also hold the key.

Speaking to the Hindustan Times, Sachin said, “Look, Test cricket is all about understanding and adaptability. What you enjoy in India, you don’t enjoy overseas. In India, with the SG ball in play, you can get off to a flier. The bowlers only get the advantage between 20th to 50th overs when reverse swing comes into play. In South Africa, it’s exactly the opposite. The first 25 overs belong to the Pacers. Indian batsmen can’t be playing strokes they do in home conditions.”

He further added, “If they had been patient in Cape Town, India would have scored the bulk of their runs between 50-80 overs. In Centurion, the openers have to take a lot of responsibility to see the new ball off. Batsmen should concentrate in the first 25 overs and look to accelerate after 50; bowlers should bowl in the right areas, and more importantly, remain positive as a team.”

Tendulkar also reckons that despite facing a loss the attitude of the Indian players won’t be down. He said, “While I don’t think the team is mentally down after the Cape Town defeat, South Africa will have their tails up. This is going to be a huge test for the team management. What India do outside the field will be as important as on it.”