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Amid India’s multi-format tour to South Africa, where they triumphed in the ODI contests and finished the T20I series on level terms, the focus will now shift to the two-match Test series. Amidst the red-ball battles, former South African cricketer Faf du Plessis has provided insights into the challenges Indian batters face on the South African soil.
A seasoned campaigner himself, Du Plessis has shed light on the nuanced difficulties that the Asian Giants encounter, attributing their batting struggles to the unique conditions in South Africa.
“It’s the bounce”: Faf Du Plessis
Du Plessis highlighted the challenge Indian batters face in South Africa, emphasizing the extra bounce compared to Indian conditions. He suggested that players accustomed to hitting the ball on the up in India might find it risky due to the increased bounce and lateral movement. The latter advised that success in South Africa relies on leaving well, exercising caution and staying at the crease for an extended period.
“It’s the bounce. There is almost one full hand of extra bounce here, compared to what they usually face in India. They are used to hitting the ball on the up there, but with the bounce on offer and lateral movement, there is additional risk at play if you haven’t done it before and are not used to the lift. The key to doing well in South Africa is to leave well and be there for a long period,” Du Plessis said as quoted by The Indian Express.
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“Runs will be gold”: Faf Du Plessis on Test series
Opining on the Test series, Du Plessis underscored the value of runs, considering them as gold. He acknowledged India’s experience and recognized them as a dangerous Test side. The Pretoria-born cricketer suggested that if the Rohit Sharma-led side can put runs on the board, their bowlers would have a good chance to control the game.
“Runs will be gold. When you have runs on the board, you will invariably have a good chance of winning. India obviously have a lot more experience than South Africa and they are a dangerous Test side. If they manage some runs, the bowlers can work around it,” the 39-year-old added.
