The Proteas head into a blockbuster Test match against India, starting on Friday, looking to once again make a big statement as the holders of the World Test Championship mace.
It’s undoubtedly going to be a massive challenge coming up against India at their fortress in Kolkata, but last month they were able to salvage a series draw against Pakistan, with that victory in Rawalpindi providing the Proteas with just their third win in the subcontinent in a decade.
Now in Kolkata for the first Test against India, it will be fascinating to see how the Proteas progress, with play getting under way at 06:00 (SA time) on Friday.
LIVE SCORING: PROTEAS V INDIA
Positive mind set
Although the Proteas will be clear underdogs in India, coach Shukri Conrad said they were determined to rewrite history and end a barren run that has seen them record just one victory in their last 10 Tests in India.
“Previously, when you came to India for the first time, it had a certain beauty about it – you could be in awe and taken aback by the occasion,” he said.
“I think because our guys are comfortable in the environment and with the opposition, thanks to their involvement in the IPL, it’s slightly easier for us to adapt to the conditions.
“It’s still going to be a helluva difficult Test, but I’m quietly confident that we can make history of our own here, and even go on to win in India.”
For the first time in decades, South African cricket will not host play a Boxing Day Test as the SA20 starts on 26 December instead, and so captain Temba Bavuma said they were fully aware of the need to cherish this opportunity.
“This Test series becomes our festive season for us. So, we’ll try and make the most of it. I think, obviously, a lot of support and appreciation has been given to us for being victors,” said Bavuma.
“We’d love to play against teams like India, England and Australia. We will have this opportunity in the Test cycle. Maybe not just two Tests, maybe three Tests. That would be fun. But we’ll take what we have at this point in time.”
