India’s encounters with South Africa in Test cricket on South African soil have been formidable challenges. Despite triumphs against Australia and drawing a Test series in England over the last six years, India has faltered against the Proteas. Under Virat Kohli’s captaincy, the 2-1 series losses in 2018 and 2021/22 intensified India’s quest for India’s first test series win in South Africa.
Former Indian fast bowler S Sreesanth expresses optimism about India’s prospects, considering the exceptional form exhibited by most players in recent months. Sreesanth sees this tour as a golden opportunity and a dream come true if India can secure a Test series win in South Africa.
“I think this is the best opportunity. Since South Africa came back into the international scene, we have a great opportunity and chance to win a series there, which is like a dream come true. I would love to see India win the Test series. It will be like winning the World Cup because winning against South Africa in South Africa will not be easy,” Sreesanth is quoted as saying by Firstpost.
The bowling department stands out as India’s strength, with a formidable pace attack led by Jasprit Bumrah, a resurgent Mohammed Shami, and the consistent Mohammed Siraj. The return of a fit-again Bumrah, Shami’s sensational World Cup performance, and Siraj’s prowess in Test cricket set the stage for a potent Indian bowling lineup. Including Prasidh Krishna and other potential reinforcements adds depth to the squad.
“The conditions there, man. It’s not easy, but the fast bowlers we saw during the World Cup also have very good pace attacks. But then the Indian team, it’s not just Bumrah, it’s not just Shami, it’s not just Siraj. We have lots of bowlers who are waiting in the wings. Even our India A squad is doing extremely well. I’m very confident that this is the series where India will win in South Africa,” said Sreesanth.
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The return of Virat Kohli to his best form emerges as a crucial factor. Kohli, breaking records in the recent 2023 World Cup, assumes the role of the team’s driving force. Sreesanth appreciates Kohli’s pride in delivering excellence, viewing him as a cricketer who plays with a sense of personal responsibility.
“Virat loves to keep proving, rather than to anybody but to himself. I think he’s that cricketer who plays with that pride and takes that pride in a very good way, not in a self-centered way. I’m so proud of myself and Virat. I’m sure it’s also like personal responsibility in delivering excellence. So, I will go with Virat and KL Rahul,” Sreesanth added.
