India vs South Africa 2nd Test Preview: As the cricketing world braces for the second Test clash between India and South Africa, all eyes turn to Newlands in Cape Town, where the two teams will engage in a high-stakes battle starting January 3. After a heavy defeat in the opening Test, India, led by Rohit Sharma, is eager for redemption, while South Africa looks to secure a series win on a ground that has historically favoured them.
Let’s have a look into more details : India vs South Africa 2nd Test Preview
The Centurion Setback
India faced a formidable defeat in the first Test, marking their third-heaviest Test defeat to the Proteas. As they gear up for the second encounter, the odds seem stacked against India, especially considering their track record in Cape Town—where victory has remained elusive in six attempts.
Team Adjustments
In response to the Centurion setback, India has made some strategic adjustments. Avesh Khan joins the squad, replacing the injured Mohammed Shami, while the experienced Avesh Khan steps in for the struggling Prasidh Krishna. Rohit Sharma’s leadership will be tested as he navigates the challenge of reshaping the team’s strategy.
Key Players to Watch
- Rohit Sharma: The skipper faces a crucial moment, needing to channel his tactical brilliance to inspire the team.
- Ravindra Jadeja: Returning to the squad, Jadeja’s all-round prowess brings balance and experience to the team.
- Mukesh Kumar: The pace bowler could be the X-factor, with his ability to move the ball both ways.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Newlands is notorious for favoring pace bowlers, and the pitch is expected to offer bounce and pace. The weather forecast indicates clear conditions for the initial days, adding a layer of unpredictability to the contest.
India vs South Africa 2nd Test Preview: Playing XI, Pitch & Weather, Prediction, and Streaming Info
Probable XIs
| India | South Africa |
|---|---|
| Rohit Sharma (c) | Dean Elgar (c) |
| Yashasvi Jaiswal | Aiden Markram |
| Shubman Gill | Tony de Zorzi |
| Virat Kohli | Keegan Petersen |
| Shreyas Iyer | David Bedingham |
| KL Rahul (wk) | Kyle Verreynne (wk) |
| Ravindra Jadeja | Marco Jansen |
| Ravichandran Ashwin | Kagiso Rabada |
| Jasprit Bumrah | Lungi Ngidi |
| Mohammed Siraj | Nandre Burger |
| Mukesh Kumar | Tristan Stubbs |
Prediction
With South Africa holding the psychological advantage at Newlands, the prediction leans in their favor. The Proteas aim for a 2-0 series win, while India needs to defy the odds for a comeback victory.
Where to Watch
Catch the action live on the Star Sports Network, and for online streaming, tune in to Disney + Hotstar.
India vs South Africa 2nd Test Preview: Playing XI, Pitch & Weather, Prediction, and Streaming Info
As the cricketing world awaits this crucial clash, the India vs South Africa 2nd Test promises a riveting contest of skill, strategy, and resilience. Will India stage a comeback, or will South Africa seal the series? The answers unfold at Newlands.
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