Proteas face daunting India Test series challenge after Pakistan draw: Herschelle Gibbs weighs in
Proteas legend Herschelle Gibbs highlights the daunting challenge South Africa faces against India in the upcoming Test series, emphasising the team’s preparedness and confidence as they welcome back skipper Temba Bavuma, while recalling New Zealand’s recent success against India. Picture: Michael Sherman/IOL
Image: Michael Sherman/IOL
Although South Africa scored a rousing comeback series draw against hosts Pakistan last month, the Test series against India starting at Eden Gardens on Friday will be a totally different proposition according to Proteas legend Herschelle Gibbs.
South Africa won the second Test against Pakistan, as Keshav Maharaj shone with the ball and allrounder Senuran Muthusamy played a pivotal role with the bat down the order with an unbeaten 89 in SA’s first innings, which effectively turned the match.
Those performances, though confidence-boosting, are in the past now, and a far bigger challenge awaits from India on their home turf.
Gibbs, who played 90 Tests for SA, said there would be a number of factors at play like welcoming back their skipper Temba Bavuma from injury.
India’s Challenge: South Africa’s Preparedness and Confidence
“I think India will obviously pose a different challenge completely. But I mean, Keshav Maharaj also bowled out of his socks, came back well, and it’s good to see him firing again.
“Obviously, they missed Temba Bavuma, his consistency as far as the batting is concerned. But yeah, they go to India, I think, prepared, and I think they know what to expect. It will be a bit more challenging, I think, than Pakistan, definitely. They obviously are a lot stronger squad.”
Gibbs was also quick to point out that New Zealand beat hosts India in their three-Test series in October and November last year.
“But they [South Africa] go there with confidence, which is important. And yeah, you know, I mean, New Zealand beat India, three zip. Hopefully, I'll be happy with any series win. I'll take it any day.”