India face South Africa in Kolkata Test: Preview and stats
What's the story
The upcoming Test series between India and South Africa marks a significant challenge for the reigning ICC World Test Championship winners. Historically, South Africa have struggled to make an impact on Indian soil, losing six out of their last seven Tests here. The only exception was a rain-affected draw when they were well on their way to defeat. The 1st Test starts from November 14 onward at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Here are further details and stats.
Historical context
South Africa's recent history in India
South Africa's struggles in India were evident during their last two tours. In 2015-16, a young Indian team beat them on turning tracks. Four years later, they lost by huge margins even on good batting surfaces that offered little to the home spinners. The Proteas will be hoping their more experienced squad can turn things around this time around.
Team composition
South Africa's chances in the upcoming series
The South African squad for the upcoming series features a mix of experience and youth. Keshav Maharaj, their lead spinner from the last tour, will be key to their chances. Kagiso Rabada remains a reliable fast bowler while Simon Harmer returns after his 2015-16 tour. However, South Africa have historically struggled in India, and the hosts have been in good form lately with strong performances against England awat and West Indies at home.
Pitch
A look at the pitch report
A good batting track at Eden Gardens is expected to be on offer. Reverse swing can come into play. There is little grass on the pitch but it is not expected to be excessively dry or cracked. India are likely to go with a three-man spin attack and two quality pacers. The Proteas unit is also expected to follow the same combination in their bowling.
Team lineup
South Africa's probable playing XI for the 1st Test
South Africa's probable XI for the series includes Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma (captain), Kyle Verreynne (wicketkeeper), Senuran Muthusamy, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, and Keshav Maharaj. They will be looking to replicate the combination that won their last Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi. The batting strength of their first-choice attack gives them depth without compromising on bowling prowess.
Information
What is India's probable XI?
Team India likely XI: KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah.
Details
H2H record between the two teams
As per ESPNcricinfo, the two teams have faced each other in 44 Test matches. India have won 16 matches with the Proteas unit claiming 18 wins. Another 10 matches have been drawn. On Indian soil, the two sides have met 19 times. India have claimed 11 wins in addition to drawing 5 and losing three. At Eden Gardens, the two teams have clashed three times in Test cricket. Team India has won two matches. South Africa have won 1 encounter.
Do you know?
When can one watch the 1st Test?
The India vs South Africa 1st Test at Eden Gardens will start at 9:30am IST. One can watch the match live on the Star Sports Network. The Jio Hotstar app will provide live streaming (paid subscription).
Stats
These Indian players are approaching milestones: Decoding stats
Star Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is 10 runs shy from becoming the fourth cricketer to do the double of 4,000 runs and 300 wickets in Tests. He owns 3,990 runs from 87 matches at 38.73. With the ball, he has managed 338 wickets. KL Rahul is 15 shy of clocking 4,000 runs in Tests. He owns 3,985 runs at 36.55. Yashasvi Jaiswal is 72 short of 2,500 Test runs.
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