- Although, India have been playing some brilliant cricket off late, this tour will be a BIG test for the young Blue-brigade. PREDICTION: 1-2 (ODIs) 1-1 (Tests)
- The reliable top-3 will be sternly tested : Dhawan, Kohli and Rohit, did surely make merry out of Aussie and Windies bowlers, but facing Steyn and co. in their own backyard, will test their technique and temperament. It will be interesting to know how fast they can adapt to fast and bouncy tracks of South Africa.
- Raina and Yuvraj- Watch out for those bouncers, lads. They were facing the “chin-music” recently against Australia and West Indies, and bouncy pitches in South Africa could give them more sleepless nights.
- Pujara Factor : In his last series in SA, he had a torrid time. But, heis now a very mature batsman and has the backing of runs. In my opinion, he will be India’s best bet, in Tests.
- The No.4 Dilemma : Sachin’s retirement has left a huge crater in the Indian test batting order. I would like to belive that, Kohli will be pushed up the order, and he will bat at 4. At present, he is the best bet for the number 4 spot, but if India decides to play 7 batsmen, Rahane can be pushed up the order, too.
- BIG opportunity for India’s fast-bowling contingent: In 1996, Javagal Srinath thrived in South African conditions and tranformed himself into a great bowler. Can Bhuvi-Shami combo make an impact? This series holds great importance for these two, as it will be easy to bowl against Amla, Smith, Kallis and AB, in their familiar conditions.
- The STEYNGUN : Arguably, the best fast bowler of the world, Steyn is in a great form, and he will be, as always, the key factor, throughout the series. Indian batsmen are known to have weakness against pace and bounce, and this man, Dale Steyn have both, in plenty.
- And, to India’s misery, it’s not only about Steyn. Morkel and Philander can be equally threatening on a given day. Remember 21/9 against Australia?
- Jack and Hash: Both love Indian bowling, even more than Romeo loved Juliet. They believe in grinding the bowlers before eating them. Beware, Indian bowlers.
- Last but not the least, Zaheer Khan’s old hands on the new shinning cherry, will be very crucial. He’s India’s most experienced bowler and watch-out for his battle against Graeme Smith.
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