Team India will begin their tour to South Africa on 26th December in Centurion. The Indian team haven’t won a series in South Africa in 29 years, has a golden opportunity to make history. During the previous series, India won the 1st Test match but then defeated in the following two, finally losing the series.
Since 1992, India and South Africa have competed in 20 Test matches in South Africa, where India won 3 of them. The first victory for India occurred in the 2006 series, led by Rahul Dravid, the team’s current head coach.
Former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri believes that defeating South Africa at home will be difficult for the Indian side. Furthermore, he feels that the squad contains players who have the capability to surprise the South African side.
Virat Kohli has been an impeccable leader: Ravi Shastri
“South Africa remains an unconquered bastion. Remember, the Proteas are no pushovers in their own backyard, but we have got the firepower and the arsenal to match that. As always, Team India will always have my backing,” said Shastri.
Shastri also stated that the Indian team’s visit to South Africa had happened at an appropriate moment. He also feels that Virat Kohli is a great captain with a strong squad.
“There couldn’t have been a better time for Team India to prove their mettle. Virat (Kohli) has been an impeccable leader and has got a talented team to go along with it,” Shastri said.
The 2nd Test between South Africa and India will be held in Johannesburg. The 3rd Test is set to take place at Capetown. The 2 teams will also contest a three-match One-Day International series beginning January 19. It will be Rohit Sharma’s maiden series as the team’s full-time captain.
Just after officials chose to have one skipper for the limited-overs side, Rohit was made captain of the ODI team. Kohli’s leadership was removed by the selectors. Previously, it was speculated that Kohli might skip the ODI series. However, he has, affirmed his willingness.
