Overview:
The last Test series between these two sides in 2023-24 also ended in a 1-1 stalemate.
On November 14th, India and South Africa will square off in the 1st Test at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. With India’s dominance in Test cricket and South Africa’s impressive run, this match promises to be a thrilling spectacle.
India claimed a 2-0 series victory over the West Indies at home and currently sits comfortably in third place in the WTC standings. South Africa, on the other hand, comes off a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Pakistan in their away series. The last Test series between these two sides in 2023-24 also ended in a 1-1 stalemate.
India vs South Africa: Player Battles to Keep an Eye on in the 1st Test
Dewald Brevis vs Mohammed Siraj
Dewald Brevis brings his aggressive batting to Test cricket. He’ll face a tough challenge from Siraj, especially with the latter’s skill in reverse swing.
Mohammed Siraj has often been overshadowed by the presence of Jasprit Bumrah in India’s Test lineup, but he has consistently risen to the occasion. With 12 wickets in 4 Tests against South Africa, Siraj has shown he can deliver at the highest level.
KL Rahul vs Marco Jansen
KL Rahul has faced Marco Jansen across 8 innings in Test cricket, scoring 53 runs off 163 balls and falling to the South African pacer three times. Jansen has been a constant threat, bowling 144 dot balls and using his height and reverse swing to challenge Rahul.
Jasprit Bumrah vs Aiden Markram
Jasprit Bumrah has bowled against Aiden Markram in 12 innings in Test cricket, conceding 99 runs off 115 balls. Markram has fallen to Bumrah twice at an average of 49.50 against the Indian pacer. Bumrah’s precision and skill will continue to be a key challenge for Markram in the upcoming Test series.
Jasprit Bumrah, who has claimed 38 wickets against South Africa in 8 Tests, will lock horns with Aiden Markram, the anchor of South Africa’s batting. Markram played a crucial role in their WTC final triumph.
Ravindra Jadeja vs Temba Bavuma
Ravindra Jadeja has faced Temba Bavuma across 5 innings in Test cricket, conceding just 28 runs off 95 balls, with the South African batter falling twice to the Indian spinner. Jadeja’s tight bowling has been evident with 81 dot balls, using his variety and control to keep Bavuma in check. As India prepares for the upcoming Test series against South Africa, this battle between Jadeja and Bavuma will be one of the key highlights.