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As Team India brace for their multi-format tour of South Africa, beginning with the T20I series on December 10, the focus shifts to the upcoming Test series. The tour, consisting of T20Is, ODIs, and Tests, is a significant challenge for India, who are determined to improve their track record in the rainbow nation.
Return of key players
The T20I series sets the stage for the ODIs, commencing on December 17 and concluding on December 21. However, the most anticipated segment is undoubtedly the Test series starting on December 26. Noteworthy is the return of stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who will be unavailable for the white-ball matches.
Historical hurdle in South Africa
For India, the Test series holds immense importance, given their historical struggles in South Africa. The visitors have never clinched a Test series in the rainbow nation, managing only a draw in 2010/11. In their last encounter in 2021/22, India faced defeat in the red-ball series by 2-1.
Irfan Pathan’s ‘Success Mantra’
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has provided a strategic insight into what could be the “success mantra” for Team India in the upcoming Test battle. According to Pathan, mastering the new ball will be pivotal for India’s success in South Africa.
“When you bat and bowl well with the new ball, that is the biggest mantra, that you conquered it, then things will become easier for you. Because in South Africa, the toughest thing to do is bat and facing the new ball,” emphasized Pathan during an appearance on Star Sports.
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Learning from past triumphs
Reflecting on India’s past success in South Africa, Pathan highlighted the significance of sustained focus and performance, even with the old ball. He drew attention to India’s victorious test series and stressed the importance of maintaining high standards, especially during the second and third spells.
“I found that last time when we played that and won a test series, when we won against them, the way we bowled in the second and third spell, we were tired as a bowling unit, and our length was a bit short, there was no shine and when we bowled up the pitch to them, I remember the pitch map very well, the balls pitched up were not shining at all, it was just speed,” added Pathan.
Fitness and bowling prowess
Pathan underscored the role of fitness, emphasizing the need for India to capitalize on the advantage of a two-test series. He emphasized, “…it can be of advantage to the Indian side because it’s two test matches, they can go all in and make their bowling reach a level that in the four innings, we have to take all 40 wickets of the opposition.”
As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the action, Pathan’s insights add a layer of anticipation, offering a glimpse into the strategic mindset of Team India ahead of their challenging Test series in South Africa. Notably, the opening Test will be hosted by Supersport in Centurion while the second and final Test shall be played at Newlands in Cape Town.
