Former South Africa captain Graeme Smith, drawing upon his vast experience playing in the subcontinent, has issued clear strategic advice to the Proteas ahead of their highly anticipated two-Test series against India, which begins in Kolkata this Friday. Smith emphasized the critical importance of gaining early momentum and identified two specific bowlers he believes can pose a genuine threat to the dominant Indian batting lineup.
Graeme Smith’s mandate: South African Batters must step up for a strong start in IND vs SA test series
Smith stressed that for South Africa to have any chance of overcoming their dismal Test record in India, where they haven’t won a Test series since 2000 and last secured a Test match victory in 2010, they must perform exceptionally well right from the first ball. He highlighted the crucial nature of the first Test returning to Eden Gardens after six years, noting the venue’s reputation for offering quality batting surfaces.
Speaking at the SA20 event in India, Smith shared his view, stating, “I’m hoping that with the first Test in Kolkata, it’s generally quite a good place to bat, get good value for runs. It’s a stadium that, especially when it’s full, will really motivate the South Africans to perform well.”
Crucially, he warned that falling behind in Asian conditions is a deficit nearly impossible to overcome, placing the onus squarely on the top order.
“I think it’s crucial on these types of tours that you start well. If you get behind the game in the subcontinent, it’s very difficult to fight your way back. And the batters in particular are going to really have to step u.” the 44-year-old asserted.
IND vs SA: Graeme Smith identifies 2 South African bowlers to ‘do damage’ to Indian batters
While the spotlight often falls on the fast bowlers, Smith insists that South Africa’s true weapon on Indian pitches lies in their experienced spin department. He believes that the two primary spinners possess the quality needed to not only contain the scoring but also become genuine wicket-taking options against the Indian batters. Smith specifically named Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer as the duo with the ability to turn the game in South Africa’s favour:
“I think South Africa arrived here with a decent bowling attack, especially in the spin department. [Keshav] Maharaj and [Simon] Harmer can definitely do damage; they can control the game, and they have the ability to turn the ball, which are wicket-taking options with spin…”
Smith acknowledged that the touring side has included three experienced spinners in its ranks, Maharaj, Harmer and Senuran Muthusamy, to ensure they are well-prepared for the inevitable pressure. He believes this gives Captain Temba Bavuma good spin options to use. He added that while spin will ultimately be key, he is also keen “to see how [Kagiso] Rabada and the likes handle reverse swing” as part of a formidable bowling line-up ready to put India to the test.
