Past South Africa captain Graeme SmithDrawing on his vast experience playing in the subcontinent, he gave clear strategic advice for the proteas The highly anticipated two test series against Indiastarting this Friday in Kolkata. Smith stressed the critical importance of gaining early momentum and named two special bowlers who he believes can pose a real threat to a dominant Indian batting line-up.
Graeme Smith’s Mandate: South African batsmen, SA need to step up to a strong start in the SA Test series
Smith pointed out that South Africa have not done very well off the first ball, where they have won a Test series since 2000 and won a Test series in 2010. He underlined the importance of the first Test, returning to the Eden Gardens after six years, noting the venue’s reputation for offering quality batting surfaces.
Speaking at the SA20 event in India, Smith shared his opinion, “Hopefully, with the first Test in Kolkata, it’s generally a pretty good place to bat, a good place to run. It will do the South Africans well, especially when it’s full.”
With ease, he warned that lagging behind in Asian conditions, placing the onus at the highest order, is an almost impossible deficit to overcome.
“I think it’s very important on these types of tours that you start well. He confirmed his 44-year-old child.
IND VS SA: Graeme Smith identifies 2 South African bowlers to ‘damage’ Indian batsmen
While the spotlight often falls on the fast bowlers, Smith insists South Africa’s real weapon on Indian pitches lies in the experienced spin department. He believes that the two primary spinners have the quality to not only score but also become genuine wicket-taking options against Indian batsmen. Smith specifically named it Keshav Maharaj and Simon’s appearance As a duo with the ability to swing the game in South Africa’s favour:
“I think South Africa came here with a decent bowling attack, especially in the spin department.
Smith admitted that the Touring side has included three experienced spinners in Harmer, Maharaj Senuran Muthusamyensuring they are well prepared for the inevitable pressure. This captain thinks he gave Temba Bavuma Good spin options to use. He added that while spin is ultimately key, it is also more than that “Seeing how (Kagiso) Rabada and the likes swing upside down” As part of a formidable bowling line-up that is ready to put India to the test.
Read: Ind VS SA: 5 South African players who can trouble India in the upcoming test series
