In what promises to be an exciting clash, India and South Africa gear up for the opening game of their two-match Test series from tomorrow, at SuperSport Park in Centurion. The anticipation is high, especially after India’s 2-1 victory in the ODI series, and they are eager to carry that momentum into the longer format.
Despite India’s recent success, history weighs heavy on their Test encounters with South Africa, having secured only four wins in the past 21 years. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma is determined to rewrite history, and the return of Virat Kohli to the squad adds to the team’s strength.
Jasprit Bumrah is expected to play a crucial role for India, given his impressive record in South Africa, having claimed 26 wickets in six Tests with two five-wicket hauls.
After concluding the limited-overs leg of the tour, the focus now shifts to the Test series. Senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, returning after their last appearance in the ODI World Cup final on November 19, are set to make a competitive comeback.
The first Test, scheduled at SuperSport Park in Centurion, promises some riveting player battles between the star-studded lineups of both teams.
However, the weather poses a concern for cricket enthusiasts, as Centurion currently experiences heavy rain, clouds, and covers on the ground.
Unfortunately, the inclement weather led to the cancellation of India’s outdoor practice session. The weather forecast indicates 3 millimeters of rain today, 15 millimeters tomorrow, and 6.9 millimeters on Wednesday, raising doubts about the match’s smooth progression.
While Thursday holds a slightly better forecast with periods of cloud and sun and only two percent precipitation, Day four seems rain-free. However, a few showers and a thunderstorm are predicted for Day 5 on Saturday, adding an element of uncertainty to the Test series opener. Fans and teams alike are keeping a close eye on the weather updates, hoping for optimal playing conditions as the cricketing spectacle unfolds.
Sunil Yash Kalra is a women’s cricket historian and founder of Indian Sports Fans.