Published: Jan 05, 2018, 12:33 PM (IST)
Edited: Jan 05, 2018, 12:33 PM (IST)
The much-awaited series between India and South Africa will start from Friday with the first Test at Cape Town. The live telecast of first Test, Day One can be watches on Sony Ten 1, Sony Ten 1 HD, Sony Ten 3 and Sony Ten 3 HD. The live streaming of the same will be available on SonyLive.com. India will play three Tests, six ODIs and three T20Is. With the South Africa series, India walk into the long stretch of cricket awaiting, against England and Australia.
India look more confidence than their most recent visit to South Africa, for as many as 13 cricketers from the current squad have the experience of playing their. India will look to break the cliche of Indian batsmen not being as competent to play pace as spin. Virat Kohli, the skipper, is in supreme form and will make his comeback to the side after his break.
Question lies on the selection of Ajinkya Rahane, given he failed to impress in the home series against Sri Lanka. The likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Murali Vijay, KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma have shown skillful batting during the series, making Rahane’s selection uncertain. However, looking at his brilliant overseas record, he might be considered.
It will be a testing time for Hardik Pandya, India’s latest all-round sensation. Pandya has been able to generate good pace and bounce, also contributing with the bat. He, too, will make a comeback in Tests as he was rested. Also, Cheteshwar Pujara, who averages 62.97 at home, will want to better his overseas average of 38.52. Dhawan, who had picked up an ankle injury, has been declared fit.
