Buoyed by a hard-fought 30-run win in the opening Test at Eden Gardens, the Proteas arrive here with confidence and opportunity on their side. The result not only gave them a 1-0 lead but also marked their first Test win in India in 15 years.
While the focus has shifted to the shortest version considering there’s a World Cup in the next six months, the three-match ODI series holds importance for the new generation of players, hoping to make the most of the opportunities in the absence of the regulars.
The visitors were restricted at 204 runs while chasing a mammoth target of 386. This embarrassing defeat follows a 2-day thrashing defeat from the hands of Australia in the Gabba Test. The third and final Test between the two nations will be played in Sydney from January 4.
Anrich Nortje received medical treatment immediately on the ground and he continued to stay on the field as South Africa tried to stop dangerous looking Aussies.
South Africa coach Mark Boucher had said that AB de Villiers would be considered for a place in the national team squad for the T20 World Cup.
AB De Villiers, who had hinted at a probable international comeback ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup later this year, might reconsider his decision
Part of a rare breed of leg-spinners in South African domestic cricket in the 1960s, he was also a good enough batsman to be regarded as a genuine all-rounder.
Markram, who has played only 17 Test matches so far scoring 1358 runs at 43.80, feels that it is always tough for any team to play and win matches outside home.
India have taken the lead of 3-0 in the series.
