South Africa Aims to End 15-Year Test Win Drought in India

Kolkata, November 12 (PTI) South Africa are gearing up to face one of their toughest challenges yet: winning a Test match in India, a feat they haven't accomplished in the last 15 years. Spinner Keshav Maharaj has expressed South Africa's strong ambition to end this drought in the forthcoming Test series, which kicks off on November 14. Kolkata and Guwahati will host the two-match series.

Addressing the sheer magnitude of this tour, Maharaj conveyed the team’s eagerness, stating, “There's a real hunger and desire within the camp to beat India in India. It’s arguably the toughest tour on the Proteas' calendar across various generations. We see it as one of our biggest tests and a crucial opportunity to measure our progress."

Maharaj highlighted South Africa’s recent accomplishments in the subcontinent, expressing their resolve to conquer India, especially after coming up short in the 2015 and 2019 series. Despite being a consistently strong Test side, South Africa failed to claim a victory in their last two series in India.

Maharaj voiced his belief that the pitches in India won't be as spin-conducive as they encountered in Pakistan, where their spinners were pivotal in leveling the series after an initial setback. He anticipates traditional Test match wickets that will gradually wear down as matches progress, drawing parallels with the conditions witnessed during India's recent series against the West Indies.

Reflecting on past experiences, Maharaj noted how Indian bowlers R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja had dominated proceedings on turning tracks during South Africa's previous tours. This time, however, the South African side hopes to maintain their momentum from the Pakistan tour, demonstrating resilience and striving to deliver favorable outcomes regardless of the toss results.

The Proteas approach this cycle with a tactical precision, aiming to capitalize on their confidence and preparation when they take on India, who themselves are evolving through a transitional phase.