The upcoming Test series between India and South Africa promises to be an exciting encounter, and the performance of Virat Kohli, India’s star batter, is expected to play a crucial role. Kohli, who was India’s leading run-scorer in the last World Test Championship cycle, will look to continue his good form as India resumes its ICC World Test Championship campaign with two Tests against South Africa.
Kohli’s recent performances, including a century and a fifty in the two completed Tests against the West Indies, indicate his readiness for the challenges ahead. His success in the last World Test Championship cycle, where he scored 932 runs from 30 innings, positions him as a key player for India in the current cycle.
“I am sure he will want to have a big series here in South Africa. He has been in good form. I think he will play a major role in helping India. If they are to win here, he will have to have a good series,” Kallis informed Star Sports as quoted by ICC.
Former South African cricketer Jacques Kallis believes that Kohli will be pivotal to India’s success in the upcoming series. Kohli has a strong record against the red ball in South Africa, having scored two of his 29 Test centuries against the Proteas away from home. His average of 51.35 in South Africa is one of the three countries where he boasts an average greater than 50.
“He is a massive player, no matter where it is. Having played here quite a bit and had a fair amount of success,” Kallis noted.
“He will be able to pass that knowledge on to the other guys, especially the younger guys and give them ideas on how to manage these conditions and then what to expect,” finished Kallis.
India, currently at the second spot in the World Test Championship table, faces a formidable South African team. The Proteas, known for their strength at home, proved challenging opponents during the last Test series between the two teams, where India suffered a 2-1 defeat.
“This is a good Indian team but South Africa is tough to beat in South Africa,” Kallis attached.
“Centurion will probably suit South Africa and Newlands will probably suit India. It will be a good series and it will come down to one or two sessions that one team might play better than the other. It would be a closely fought contest,” he finished.
The Test series is scheduled to begin on December 26 with the first Test in Centurion, followed by the second Test in Cape Town from January 3-7. The squads for both teams are filled with talented players, setting the stage for a thrilling contest between bat and ball. Cricket enthusiasts can anticipate an intense battle as India aims to further solidify its position in the World Test Championship.
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