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India tour of South Africa (2021/22)

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JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) is pleased to announce India’s tour to South Africa in December-January 2021/22 across all formats. The India touring party will play South Africa in three Betway Tests, three Betway ODIs and four KFC T20Is. The tour commences on Friday, 17 December 2021 and ends on Wednesday, 26 January 2022.

The winner of the BETWAY TEST SERIES, known as the Freedom Series, is awarded the Freedom Trophy. This trophy, which is dedicated to two global icons - Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela - was first awarded in 2015.

CSA would like to announce a key schedule change for the tour. The New Year’s Freedom Test Match has been moved from the Imperial Wanderers in Johannesburg to Cape Town’s Six Gun Grill Newlands.

“CSA is excited to welcome India back to South Africa, which also significantly marks the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s first tour to India after re-entry into International Cricket in 1991. This tour affirms our unique relationship with the BCCI,” said Graeme Smith, CSA Director of Cricket.

“This tour comes at a fitting moment when Cricket South Africa, together with the people of the world celebrate Mahatma Gandhi’s 152nd birthday. We are indeed indebted to India for its support to our cricket efforts over the years. We are looking forward to hosting our guests for what promises to be nail-biting on-field encounters,” said Pholetsi Moseki, CSA Acting Chief Executive Officer.

All the Test matches are part of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2021-23 cycle.

Screenshot_20211105-134752_Gmail.jpg
 
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Can't wait for it.

India has ticked the boxes in Australia and England. Need to succeed in South Africa and New Zealand would cement its legacy as one of the GOAT sides in test cricket, below the great Australian and Windies sides.
 
Nice!

With the Ashes and this, it looks like there is some really juicy test cricket action coming up later. Enough of the pyjama games already!
 
Ind should hammer this poor Saffer team. This Saffer team is the weakest since readmission, with only one top bowler in Nortje and that's about it.
 
Last time around South Africa got lucky as one of their best batsman played two match winning knocks by the time the series was alive.

This time no one will save them though.

Hopefully, the greatest Asian test team cement its legacy further by test series wins in Australia, England and South Africa. The golden generation of test cricketers indeed in a time when other countries are running for T20 tamaasha cricket.
 
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Ab Fan said:
Last time around South Africa got lucky as one of their best batsman played two match winning knocks by the time the series was alive.

This time no one will save them though.

Hopefully, the greatest Asian test team cement its legacy further by test series wins in Australia, England and South Africa. The golden generation of test cricketers indeed in a time when other countries are running for T20 tamaasha cricket.
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Fools the lot of these countries. IPL is better than International world cup anyways :yk
 
If alive by December 2021, I'll be watching season 2 of The Witcher and occasionally checking score and laughing at IPL bullies getting exposed :yk
 
Glad to hear some news about real cricket..
Hopefully Kohli will not repeat his foolish team selections..
South African team looks very weak comparing their previous teams but can't be taken granted..
India should be worried about their batting form..
Rahane shouldn't be selected, somebody who have piled domestic runs could replace him
 
Exciting . Will see Shami bumrah and maybe the new Kashmiri kid with siraj along with ishant and umesh . A pace battery which delivers in tests . Once india wins in South Africa , we will cement our place as best asian test side ever .
 
docteurmanish said:
Exciting . Will see Shami bumrah and maybe the new Kashmiri kid with siraj along with ishant and umesh . A pace battery which delivers in tests . Once india wins in South Africa , we will cement our place as best asian test side ever .
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Too early to see Kashmiri kid in indian jersey..
Let his play some ranji matches..
Though he can give his service as net bowler
 
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India will easily beat SA in Test and OD , I do not see any surprises, India is far superior to SA .

In 20 20 SA have a chance.
 
The new COVID-19 variant, which threatens to wreak havoc in South Africa, has led to considerable concerns about India's tour of the Rainbow Nation next month and there could be changes in the quarantine rules for players in the coming days.

India, during a nearly seven-week assignment starting December 17, are scheduled to play three Tests, three ODIs and four T20 Internationals across four venues --Johannesburg, Centurion, Paarl, and Cape Town.

The cases are on the rise in the northern part of the country and at least two venues for the Test series -- Johannesburg and Pretoria (near Centurion) -- could become vulnerable to the spread of the new variant.

"Look, till we get a detailed picture of the ground situation from Cricket South Africa (CSA), we will not be able to tell our next step. As per the current plan, the Indian team is supposed to leave either on December 8 or 9 just after the New Zealand series gets over in Mumbai," a senior BCCI official told PTI on Friday.

As of now, the tour is on but it is understood that the BCCI, in the next few days, will be talking to Cricket South Africa on the detection of the new variant -- B.1.1.529 --, which has set alarm bells ringing across the globe.

Scientists believe that the high number of spike mutations could make the new variant more resistant to vaccines, make it more transmissible and cause an increase in the severity of COVID-19 symptoms.

The BCCI official indicated that even though players will be sent on a charter flight from Mumbai to Johannesburg, there is a possibility of putting them through three-four days of hard quarantine upon reaching given the changed circumstances.

"Initially, there was no provision for hard quarantine but obviously the players will remain in a bio-bubble. Now with cases rising in South Africa and European Union also cancelling flights temporarily, we need to factor in these aspects," a senior BCCI source said.

PTI also got in touch with a member of the administrative staff who is currently in Bloemfontein with the India A team which is in the middle of a 'shadow tour' of two unofficial Tests.

"We didn't undergo any hard quarantine on arrival over here since we came by charter flight and are staying in a bio-bubble. After the outbreak, a medical team from Cricket South Africa had a meeting with our representatives over here.

"We were told that there is nothing to worry since the spike in cases is far away from Bloemfontein where we would be playing our next match too," the official said over phone.

He also informed that the team has been told that spike in cases has been registered in the country's northern part.

"We were told specifically that Bloemfontein is unaffected by the spike in COVID cases and also it's happening in the northern part of the country," he added.

He also informed that as on Friday, the A team hasn't received any instruction from the BCCI.

Schedule

1st Test: Dec 17-21: Wanderers, Johannesburg

2nd Test: Dec 26-30: SuperSport Park, Centurion

3rd Test: Jan 3-7: Newlands, Cape Town

1st ODI: Jan 11: Boland Park, Paarl

2nd ODI: Jan 14: Newlands, Cape Town

3rd ODI: Jan 16: Newlands, Cape Town

1st T20I: Jan 19: Newlands, Cape Town

2nd T20I: Jan 21: Newlands, Cape Town

3rd T20I: Jan 23: Boland Park, Paarl

4th T20I: Jan 26: Boland Park, Paarl.

https://www.timesnownews.com/sports...th-africa-amid-new-covid-variants-rise/835536
 
Don't see how this tour will continue given the travel bans to Southern Africa.

This has come at the worst possible time for Cricket South Africa.
 
Last Monetarist said:
Don't see how this tour will continue given the travel bans to Southern Africa.

This has come at the worst possible time for Cricket South Africa.
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Cricket South Africa can't afford anymore series cancel due to corona .they already suffered massive financial lose due to Australia series cancellation.
 
Devadwal said:
Cricket South Africa can't afford anymore series cancel due to corona .they already suffered massive financial lose due to Australia series cancellation.
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Doubt the BCCI will get approval for this tour given the nature of this new variant. It would be extremely unfair to ask the players to tour as well.
 
Pakistan toured England at the height of the 1st covid wave. A similar tight bio bubble is required for SA tour.
 
Looking at the concerns expressed by WHO on new variant , it's better to not tour at this time. Also A team should come back
 
Anurag Thakur, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports on Saturday said that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should consult the government before sending the cricket team to South Africa where a new COVID-19 variant has emerged.

The World Health Organisation on Friday alarmed the siren among countries after a new variant of COVID-19 was classified in South Africa, the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) said in a statement.

"Not only BCCI, but every board should also consult the Indian government before sending the team to a country where a new COVID-19 variant has emerged. It is not right to send the team to a country where there is a threat, if BCCI consults us we will deliberate on that," Thakur told ANI here in Baghpat.

India is slated to tour South Africa next month for three Tests, three ODIs and four T20Is. The tour is slated to begin on December 17.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Saturday named the new COVID-19 variant B.1.1.529, which has been detected in South Africa, as 'Omicron'.

This came after the WHO held a meeting to discuss the newly-identified COVID-19 variant. "The recently discovered variant of coronavirus B.1.1.529 is of concern. It has more mutations than science knows about other alarming variants. The WHO has assessed this new variant as worrisome," the statement said.

This variant has been labelled as B.1.1.529 by scientists. WHO spokesperson Christian Lindmeier said after the meeting that early analysis shows that this variant has a large number of mutations that require and will undergo further study.

https://www.timesnownews.com/sports...eam-to-south-africa-says-anurag-thakur/835785
 
No brainer.
Tour will definitely postpone as new mutation is very dangerous.
Many countries have already cancelled flights from RSA and other countries from that region.
 
New virus will win this series without a ball bowled. Well at least postpone series
 
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer Arun Dhumal on Saturday said that the board is in regular touch with Cricket South Africa (CSA) regarding the upcoming bilateral series and how player safety needs to be ensured looking at the new COVID-19 variant which has emerged in South Africa.

The World Health Organisation on Friday sounded an alarm among countries after a new variant of COVID-19 was classified in South Africa, the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) said in a statement.

"There is nothing to say as of now. Both boards are regularly in touch. Player safety and their health is paramount for both boards. We are monitoring the situation closely, as soon as both teams feel there is anything that needs to be done, they will take a call," Dhumal told ANI.

"See, keeping in mind the health and safety of the players, whatever needs to be done will be done. Whether crowds are allowed or not, that is secondary. First priority is for the games to happen," he added.

India is slated to tour South Africa next month for three Tests, three ODIs and four T20Is. The tour is slated to begin on December 17.

Earlier, Anurag Thakur, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports said that BCCI should consult the government before sending the cricket team to South Africa where a new COVID-19 variant has emerged.

"Not only BCCI, but every board should also consult the Indian government before sending the team to a country where a new COVID-19 variant has emerged. It is not right to send the team to a country where there is a threat, if BCCI consults us we will deliberate on that," Thakur had told ANI here in Baghpat.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Saturday named the new COVID-19 variant B.1.1.529, which has been detected in South Africa, as 'Omicron'.

This came after the WHO held a meeting to discuss the newly-identified COVID-19 variant. "The recently discovered variant of coronavirus B.1.1.529 is of concern. It has more mutations than science knows about other alarming variants. The WHO has assessed this new variant as worrisome," the statement said.

This variant has been labelled as B.1.1.529 by scientists. WHO spokesperson Christian Lindmeier said after the meeting that early analysis shows that this variant has a large number of mutations that require and will undergo further study.

https://www.timesnownews.com/sports...ortant-says-bcci-treasurer-arun-dhumal/835821
 
Great opportunity for India to get their first Test series win in South Africa.

I think they may win 2-1.
 
With the fast spread of the Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of the Coronavirus in the African countries, cricketing activities have been hit majorly. Firstly, Netherlands' series against South Africa was abandoned. The ICC Women's World Cup qualifier in Zimbabwe was also cancelled. There have been concerns over India's tour to South Africa in December and January as well.

India are set to play three Tests starting December 17th, followed by three ODIs and four T20Is, thus, making it an all-format series. Currently, the India A team is in South Africa for the ongoing three-Test series, the first of which has been completed with the second unofficial Test starting today (November 30). The India A team staying to complete their series in South Africa comes as a positive sign for the senior team's tour later on.

According to sources, there are no talks of India's tour being cancelled at the moment. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been in constant touch with the India A team throughout as they are in South Africa. It is learned that the Indian team is very likely to travel to South Africa for the tour amidst thof the new COVID-19 variant. The BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA) have been in regular contact as well, monitoring the situation closely.

CSA acting CEO Pholetsi Moseki earlier stated that the two boards are in discussion regarding the series. Revealing their conversation with the BCCI, Moseki said that the Indian board is committed and the team is keen to tour South Africa. CSA is positive that the tour will go on as scheduled unless the situation gets out of control.

Further, the BCCI has also emphasized that at the moment, there has been no advisory or travel ban from the Indian government on travel to South Africa. Moseki also stated that Cricket South Africa is confident of making all the required bio-bubble arrangements to host India for the all-format tour. Thus, as things stand at present, there is no information on India's tour to South Africa being called off and is likely to take place. Nonetheless, the final call will be taken keeping the health and safety of the players as a top priority looking at how the situation develops in the days to come.

India tour of South Africa schedule:

First Test – Johannesburg (December 17-21)

Second Test – Centurion (December 26-30)

Third Test – Cape Town (January 3-7)

First ODI – Paarl (January 11)

Second ODI – Cape Town (January 14)

Third ODI – Cape Town (January 16)

First T20 International – Cape Town (January 19)

Second T20 International – Cape Town (January 21)

Third T20 International – Paarl (January 23)

Fourth T20 International – Paarl (January 26)
 
Clearly with the strong media activity there will be concerns, but hopefully the tour can go ahead. This current Indian team touring South Africa should be a showpiece series at the moment.
 
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South Africa promises secure bio-bubble for Team India; appreciates BCCI for continuing 'A' tour:

JOHANNESBURG: South Africa's foreign ministry has said that a "full bio-secure environment" will be created for the Indian cricket team when it lands here for a highly-anticipated series next month and lauded the BCCI for not pulling out its 'A' team despite the panic caused by the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant.

India A will start their second unofficial Test against South Africa A in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, staying put in the country despite the global trepidation that has followed the Omicron variant's discovery.

The Indian senior team will compete in three Tests starting December 17, followed by as many ODIs and four T20 Internationals.

Virat Kohli and his men are scheduled to land here by December 9 but there have been some concerns about the tour due to the Omicron variant's discovery in the region which has led to travel restrictions by several countries.

"South Africa will take all precautions necessary to ensure the health and safety of the Indian teams. A full Bio-secure environment will be established around both the South African and Indian 'A' Teams as well as the two National Teams," the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), which is the country's foreign ministry, stated.

"India's decision to show solidarity by choosing to continue with the tour of the Indian 'A' Team stands in contrast with a number of countries who have decided to close their borders and to restrict travel from Southern African...," it added.

The ministry said that the South African government has expressed its appreciation to the BCCI for allowing the tour to continue and "for not letting travel restrictions negatively impact on international sports."

The first India-South Africa Test will be played at Johannesburg, followed by the second match at Centurion (December 26) and the third match at

Cape Town (January 3).

"The tour of the Indian National Team marks the 30th anniversary of South Africa's readmission to international cricket."
In 1991, India had become the first country to host a South African team after the country was banned from international cricket in 1970 by the International Cricket Council (ICC) due to the then South African government's apartheid policy.

"The anniversary will be celebrated by a commemorative event that will take place on January 2, 2022 in Cape Town. This event will also serve to highlight the strong ties between South Africa and India, which is once again demonstrated by the tour of the two Indian teams," the ministry statement read.


Source: TimesNowNews.
 
James said:
South Africa promises secure bio-bubble for Team India; appreciates BCCI for continuing 'A' tour:

JOHANNESBURG: South Africa's foreign ministry has said that a "full bio-secure environment" will be created for the Indian cricket team when it lands here for a highly-anticipated series next month and lauded the BCCI for not pulling out its 'A' team despite the panic caused by the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant.

India A will start their second unofficial Test against South Africa A in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, staying put in the country despite the global trepidation that has followed the Omicron variant's discovery.

The Indian senior team will compete in three Tests starting December 17, followed by as many ODIs and four T20 Internationals.

Virat Kohli and his men are scheduled to land here by December 9 but there have been some concerns about the tour due to the Omicron variant's discovery in the region which has led to travel restrictions by several countries.

"South Africa will take all precautions necessary to ensure the health and safety of the Indian teams. A full Bio-secure environment will be established around both the South African and Indian 'A' Teams as well as the two National Teams," the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), which is the country's foreign ministry, stated.

"India's decision to show solidarity by choosing to continue with the tour of the Indian 'A' Team stands in contrast with a number of countries who have decided to close their borders and to restrict travel from Southern African...," it added.

The ministry said that the South African government has expressed its appreciation to the BCCI for allowing the tour to continue and "for not letting travel restrictions negatively impact on international sports."

The first India-South Africa Test will be played at Johannesburg, followed by the second match at Centurion (December 26) and the third match at

Cape Town (January 3).

"The tour of the Indian National Team marks the 30th anniversary of South Africa's readmission to international cricket."
In 1991, India had become the first country to host a South African team after the country was banned from international cricket in 1970 by the International Cricket Council (ICC) due to the then South African government's apartheid policy.

"The anniversary will be celebrated by a commemorative event that will take place on January 2, 2022 in Cape Town. This event will also serve to highlight the strong ties between South Africa and India, which is once again demonstrated by the tour of the two Indian teams," the ministry statement read.


Source: TimesNowNews.
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Respect. ECB or ACB would have run home for Christmas shopping
 
James said:
South Africa promises secure bio-bubble for Team India; appreciates BCCI for continuing 'A' tour:

JOHANNESBURG: South Africa's foreign ministry has said that a "full bio-secure environment" will be created for the Indian cricket team when it lands here for a highly-anticipated series next month and lauded the BCCI for not pulling out its 'A' team despite the panic caused by the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant.

India A will start their second unofficial Test against South Africa A in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, staying put in the country despite the global trepidation that has followed the Omicron variant's discovery.

The Indian senior team will compete in three Tests starting December 17, followed by as many ODIs and four T20 Internationals.

Virat Kohli and his men are scheduled to land here by December 9 but there have been some concerns about the tour due to the Omicron variant's discovery in the region which has led to travel restrictions by several countries.

"South Africa will take all precautions necessary to ensure the health and safety of the Indian teams. A full Bio-secure environment will be established around both the South African and Indian 'A' Teams as well as the two National Teams," the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), which is the country's foreign ministry, stated.

"India's decision to show solidarity by choosing to continue with the tour of the Indian 'A' Team stands in contrast with a number of countries who have decided to close their borders and to restrict travel from Southern African...," it added.

The ministry said that the South African government has expressed its appreciation to the BCCI for allowing the tour to continue and "for not letting travel restrictions negatively impact on international sports."

The first India-South Africa Test will be played at Johannesburg, followed by the second match at Centurion (December 26) and the third match at
Click to expand...

Never thought I would say this but proud of the BCCI lol.

Really hope the situation doesn't worsen there and the tour goes on. CSA suffered the most because of covid after the England and Australian tours were cancelled and they were probably hoping for this series to make up for the losses. Hopefully it happens.
 
BCCI president Sourav Ganguly on Tuesday said India's tour to South Africa remains on schedule and they're keeping a close watch on the situation surrounding the emergence of the new COVID-19 variant.

There has been growing concern about the spread of the new COVID-19 variant, named Omicron, which was first reported in South Africa.

"The tour is on as things stand till now. We still have time to decide. The first Test is scheduled from December 17. We will ponder about it," Ganguly told reporters on the sidelines of a promotional event.

India play the final Test against New Zealand in Mumbai and are scheduled to depart to Johannesburg from there on December 8 or 9 on a chartered flight.

"Players' security and health has always been BCCI's first priority, we will do everything possible for this. We will see what happens in the days to come."

On the tour, India play three Tests, three ODIs and four T20s.

The former India captain also backed out-of-favour allrounder Hardik Pandya to regain his place in the side after returning to full fitness.

"He is a good cricketer. He's not fit, that's why he's not there in the team. He's young, I hope he makes a comeback after recovering from his injury."

Recently, legendary Kapil Dev questioned Hardik Pandya's role as an allrounder in the India team after he had stopped bowling following his back surgery.

"Don't compare him (Hardik) with Kapil Dev. He belonged to a different league," Ganguly concluded.

https://www.timesnownews.com/sports...s-of-now-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly/836688
 
Team India To Stay In Two Hotels, Players' Safety Priority For Us:

Cricket South Africa Chief To NDTVIn an exclusive chat with NDTV, Cricket South Africa (CSA) chairman Lawson Naidoo has said that the board is in constant touch with the BCCI and appreciates the measures taken by the Indian government.
There are concerns over India's tour of South Africa amid the detection of a new Covid variant called Omicron. In an exclusive chat with NDTV, Cricket South Africa (CSA) chairman Lawson Naidoo has said that the board is in constant touch with the BCCI and appreciates the measures taken by the Indian government, terming travel restrictions by other countries as an over-reaction. Naidoo added that only 2000 spectators will be allowed in the stadium every game during the series after verification of them being vaccinated. He also gave details regarding the bio-secure environment bubble as well as CSA's emergency plan, if things do go out of control at any point.

Excerpts below:

The BCCI president said yesterday that the tour is on despite the new Covid variant. Have you had any formal or informal communication from BCCI?

We are in regular contact with the BCCI, keeping them abreast of development in South Africa.

When most nations have issued travel restrictions, what would you like to say to the BCCI?

The WHO organisation has made it clear that travel restrictions are an over-reaction to the identification of a new variant of the Covid-19 virus. Travel restrictions have proven ineffective in curbing the spread of the virus. In our view, the Indian government has implemented appropriate measures to ameliorate the spread of the virus by travellers entering India.

Has BCCI asked for any special requirement for the tour?

The BCCI has not requested any special requirements - the tour was always going to be arranged on the basis of strict Covid-19 protocols being observed.

Would the schedule of the tour remain the same or would it be restricted to few cities for now?

The tour schedule has been planned on the basis that the first two Test matches will be played in Johannesburg and Centurion (with players staying at the same hotels for these games). The third Test and all white ball games will be played in Cape Town and Paarl (with players once again staying at the same hotels for both sets of games). This planning has been done on the basis that the BSE "bubble" will only be moved once, from Gauteng to Cape Town.

Speaking to NDTV , the South African doctor who detected the variant first, disclosed that it's not as dangerous as hyped and there is very little chance of one ending up in hospital. Is that going to be a big factor?

Studies on the variant are continuing and more will be known in the coming weeks, but for now the severity of the strand appears to be lower than previous variants. Our scientists are leading the world in this regard.

What about the safety and precautions and steps taken by South Africa board to ensure the tour goes on smoothly?

As mentioned above, these steps have been taken from the very start of planning for the tour - the safety of all players, match officials and team management are a priority for us.

What about the bio secure bubble and the isolation period for the players?

Both teams will be in a bio-secure environment for the duration of the tour. South Africa has hosted Sri Lanka and Pakistan already this year so we have experience of providing secure environments.

Would the fans be allowed in the stadium? Would they be required to get the vaccination or RT-PCR done?

In terms of current regulations, up to 2,000 spectators will be permitted in stadiums - they will have to prove their vaccination status.

Finally, if there is a situation in the middle of the series where the tour could not be continued, what kind of arrangement are there for Indian players to fly back if there are restrictions?

The Indian team will be flying in and out of South Africa on a chartered plane so no additional measure will be required.

https://sports.ndtv.com/cricket/tea...us-cricket-south-africa-chief-to-ndtv-2631604
 
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has set a deadline of Sunday to decide on the fate of the Indian men's cricket team's upcoming tour of South Africa, sources have informed NDTV. The future of the tour, which begins with the first Test match in Johannesburg from December 17, has been under question ever since the spread of the new COVID-19 variant Omicron. It has been learnt that the board has asked for some time from Cricket South Africa (CSA) to discuss the matter internally. Sources have informed NDTV that under the current circumstances, BCCI could ask CSA to delay the series. India are scheduled to play three Tests, three ODIs and four T20Is as part of the tour.

The 10-match tour is worth around R 700 million (South African Rand), roughly 330 Cr INR.

The heavily-mutated Omicron variant of the coronavirus was last month identified in South Africa, where cases reportedly doubled within 24 hours on Wednesday.

The Omicron variant has reached as many as 24 countries, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Many countries have responded to the situation by issuing travel curbs on visitors from southern African countries, a move that has been criticised by South African president Cyril Ramaphosa as "unjustified and unfairly discriminate".

The India "A" team is currently playing three unofficial Tests in South Africa and is slated to stay in the country till December 6.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), which is South Africa's foreign ministry, praised India for continuing with the tour.

"India's decision to show solidarity by choosing to continue with the tour of the Indian ''A'' Team stands in contrast with a number of countries who have decided to close their borders and to restrict travel from Southern African...," it said in a statement.

On the other hand, CSA chairman Lawson Naidoo had told NDTV on Wednesday about the safety measures in place for the upcoming tour, saying Team India would be staying in two hotels during the trip.

"The tour schedule has been planned on the basis that the first two Test matches will be played in Johannesburg and Centurion (with players staying at the same hotels for these games). The third Test and all white ball games will be played in Cape Town and Paarl (with players once again staying at the same hotels for both sets of games). This planning has been done on the basis that the BSE 'bubble' will only be moved once, from Gauteng to Cape Town," Naidoo said.

https://sports.ndtv.com/cricket/bcc...decide-on-indias-tour-of-south-africa-2633744
 
SA tour may be delayed by a week to 10 days and become a 2 test and 3 Odis and 4 T20s.
 
A decision will be conveyed to us by the board in coming days: Virat Kohli on SA tour.

Indian Test skipper Virat Kohli shared his views on India's upcoming tour to South Africa where he said that the BCCI will soon inform the team about the decision.

Indian Test captain Virat Kohli is all set to make a comeback to the squad for the 2nd Test against New Zealand. Kohli, who was rested for the T20I series as well as the opening Test against New Zealand, is all set to resume captaincy duties at Wankhede. Addressing a press conference ahead of the 2nd Test, Kohli was asked if there was an update on India's upcoming tour to South Africa.

In his response, Kohli said a conversation has been initiated by the newly-appointed head coach Rahul Dravid and the decision would be conveyed to the team by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in the coming days.

"There's a lot of planning going on. Rahul bhai (Dravid) has initiated a conversation. Need to be realistic, don't want to be in situation where there's confusion. We're sure that decision will be conveyed to us by the board in the coming days," Kohli said at the conference.

It was reported that players who are not a part of the Test squad for the New Zealand series were asked to quarantine and be a part of the bubble.

"It's pretty natural, we are not playing in normal times so there is a lot of planning that is involved, there is a lot of preparation that is involved in understanding what exactly will go on," said Kohli.

"There are players who are not part of the group right now and will be entering quarantine to join the team in the bubble to fly in a charter. Those kinds of things, you want to seek clarity as soon as possible, so we have spoken to all the senior members of the squad."

Kohli added that while clarity on the South Africa tour was expected soon, the team's focus was on the 2nd Test against New Zealand.

"We have been talking to the board and we are pretty confident within a day or two or pretty soon we will have absolute clarity as to what is going on," said Kohli.

"We need to be realistic about things as well and should ignore the things which potentially can put you into a confusing place. Everyone is working hard towards finding clarity. We are all hopeful that will happen soon but prime focus in on second Test," he added.

With Kohli's return, one player will have to make way for the skipper. Mayank Agarwal is likely to be left out with debutant Shreyas Iyer producing a sensational performance in the opening Test.

Source: Times Now News.
 
I'd be staggered if the BCCI choose to proceed ahead with this tour, the growth in the number of active cases in South Africa is a huge warning sign.

It is what it is, and it's unfortunate for CSA, but it would be highly irresponsible for the BCCI to force their players to be touring under these circumstances.
 
Last Monetarist said:
I'd be staggered if the BCCI choose to proceed ahead with this tour, the growth in the number of active cases in South Africa is a huge warning sign.

It is what it is, and it's unfortunate for CSA, but it would be highly irresponsible for the BCCI to force their players to be touring under these circumstances.
Click to expand...

Seems CSA living in hope....

==

Cricket South Africa (CSA) chairperson Lawson Naidoo on Friday said that he was "unaware" of any possible postponement of the upcoming India team tour.

He added that the CSA is engaging with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to make the tour happen and that any changes to the schedule will be deliberated over by the two boards.

India was supposed to leave for South Africa on December 8 or 9, after the conclusion of the second Test against New Zealand in Mumbai for an all-format tour featuring three Tests, three ODIs and four T20Is from December 17 to January 26.

But with the emergence of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 virus in South Africa, the tour is now in uncertainty with reports of postponement or reduction in number of Test matches from three to two doing the rounds.

Currently, the India 'A' team is playing its second of three four-day matches against South Africa 'A' in Bloemfontein.

We are unaware of any possible postponement of the Indian cricket tour to South Africa. We are engaging with the BCCI to ensure that the tour does go ahead. Any changes to the schedule will be discussed by the two boards. We are in regular contact with the BCCI with a view to ensuring that the tour can take place in an environment that is safe for all the players and officials," Naidoo told IANS over e-mail.

The CSA chairperson underscored the financial importance of the India tour. "A tour by India to any country is a great financial boost to the host country. The England and Australian fixtures have been rearranged for the coming years so the financial impact will ultimately be negligible," he said.

Naidoo further gave a lowdown on what will be the already agreed bio-secure measures for the Indian team when they come down to South Africa while giving reference of hosting Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

"It was always planned that the games would be played within a BSE (bio-secure environment) set-up, the same measures that were put in place to ensure that the tours by Sri Lanka and Pakistan went off without a hitch earlier this year. The Indian team are due to travel by chartered plane to ensure their travel safety. A chartered plane will convey them to and from South Africa. Hotels have all been adequately protected with full Covid protocols in place."

Asked on the postponement of the latest round of matches in division two of South Africa's four-day provincial competition due to COVID-19 on Thursday, Naidoo pointed out that the teams were not staying in a bio-secure environment.

"It must be noted that these domestic games have not been played within a bio-secure bubble, and once some players had tested positive for the virus, we acted to postpone the games to safeguard the players and officials."

With South Africa seeing a fourth wave of COVID-19 infections, doubts have been raised over fans entering the stadium when the series will be on.

Talking about the same, Naidoo said, "In terms of current regulations, 2,000 spectators are permitted at games in South Africa."

https://www.timesnownews.com/sports...our-says-csa-chairperson-lawson-naidoo/837424
 
The second four-day encounter between South Africa A and India A ended in a draw following an eventful fourth and final day as bad light brought an end to the visitor’s chase for victory at the Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein on Friday.

The hosts could only add 96 runs onto their second innings score at the start of day four, with Marco Jansen (28) and Glenton Stuurman (26) contributing crucial late-inning runs to help the hosts to 212 all out and a 233-run lead.

Impressive medium-pacer, Ishan Porel finished with match figures of six for 82 runs, leading the way with ball in hand for the touring side.

Needing 234 for victory, India A suffered two early setbacks at the hands of the in-form Stuurman as the right-arm fast bowler built on a promising first innings where he picked up his 200th First Class scalp, removing openers Prithvi Shaw (18) and Priyank Panchal (0).

Those wickets brought Abhimanyu Easwaran (55 off 117 balls; 7 fours) and Hanuma Vihari (72* off 116 balls; 12 fours) to the crease, with the pair making their presence felt with a 133-run partnership to give the away sides hopes of securing the result as the end of the day’s play was edging closer.

While the sun was setting on the Mangaung Oval, India A ran out of time still requiring 79 runs to win, as the players went off the park due to bad light before the game was officially called a draw, leaving the series level with one game to play.

Stuurman ended the match with an excellent return of seven wickets for 99 runs, while India’s Vihari was named the Player of the Match following notable batting displays throughout the game.

The third and final four-day clash between SA A and India A will take place at the same venue from Monday, 06 December and will be streamed live via SuperSport’s YouTube channel and channel 246 on the DSTV Now App.

Latest Score –

Match Drawn

South Africa A: 297 & 212 / 10 after 58.5 overs; S. Erwee 41 (54), R. van Tonder (33); I. Porel 3 – 33, A. Nagwaswalla 2 – 45

India A: 276 & 155 / 3 after 41.3 overs; H. Vihari 72* (116), A. Easwaran 55 (117); G. Stuurman 3 – 51, L. Sipamla 0 – 22
 
cricketjoshila said:
Tour likely to go ahead as scheduled.
Click to expand...

It seems one test will be dropped. Not good IMO, would rather drop a couple of useless T20Is. We are historically slow starters in SENA, 3 test series maximizes our chances to secure a historic series win.
 
Swashbuckler said:
It seems one test will be dropped. Not good IMO, would rather drop a couple of useless T20Is. We are historically slow starters in SENA, 3 test series maximizes our chances to secure a historic series win.
Click to expand...

Right now all 3 tests are on the cards. Decision to be confirmed during tommorow's AGM.
 
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa can confirm that the India Tour will continue as originally scheduled, with a few adjustment to the logistical arrangements, such as the arrival time of the India Team. Pursuant to a very cordial relationship between the Board of Cricket South Africa and the Board of Cricket Commission of India, the tour is now confirmed and the arrival timings of the India team will be moved out by a week, to allow for effective logistical planning. With the Proteas men’s team having already participated in no less than eight international cricket BSEs, CSA is pleased to announce that this tour will also take place under the strictest Covid-19 guidelines, as contained in the BSE protocols.

India will play three (3) One Day Internationals and three (3) Tests against the Proteas. However, the four (4) scheduled T20 Matches will be rescheduled in the new year, as part of the joint MoU.

CSA is also pleased to confirm that the allocation of match venues will still be in respect of the Bubble Safe Environment (BSEs) and therefore the decision on the allocations will take into account the need for safer playing environments. CSA has instituted these world class standards and measures to ensure that all players, staff and officials are protected within this environment. CSA’s main focus is to safeguard the cricket biosphere by managing strict entry standards and limited movement outside of its cordon. CSA will confirm the venues in the next 48 hours.

Said Pholetsi Moseki, Acting Chief Executive Officer at Cricket South Africa, “I would like to thank both the leadership of Cricket South Africa, as well as the leadership of the BCCI for working so tirelessly to make this tour a reality. Even under the most uncertain times, the Boards kept the light of hope alive and kept us anticipating that this tour will indeed take place. For us as CSA it is always a meeting of old friends when the Proteas take on India, but we will still present the fans with a compelling proposition and a great spectacle to watch. I would like to take this opportunity to also thank our commercial partners and fans, as we promise them a great game of cricket ahead.”
 
Great to see 3 tests being intact. Well done both boards.
 
My playing XI for first test :-

1. Rohit Sharma
2. KL Rahul
3. Shubhman Gill
4. Virat Kohli
5. Hanuma Vihari
6. Rishabh Pant (wkt)
7. Ravindra Jadeja/ Washington Sundar
8. Shardul Thakur
9. Mohammad Shami
10. Mohammad Siraj
11. Jasprit Bumrah

I know it will be hard on Ashwin but the impact of Shardul Thakur in the previous tours of England and Australia just seals it for him ahead of Ashwin who maybe averaging under 30 in SENA for over 4-5 years but here you have Thakur who has done even better with both bat and bowl.

If Jadeja lacks impact with the bat, I really feel he can be replaced by Washington Sundar although they might not do it due to seniority culture but he is technically a very solid batsman and a good sole spin option as he showed in Brisbane in 2021.
 
Great to see some cricket in SA and that too 3 tests. I am tired of 2 tests series.
 
Ab Fan said:
My playing XI for first test :-

1. Rohit Sharma
2. KL Rahul
3. Shubhman Gill
4. Virat Kohli
5. Hanuma Vihari
6. Rishabh Pant (wkt)
7. Ravindra Jadeja/ Washington Sundar
8. Shardul Thakur
9. Mohammad Shami
10. Mohammad Siraj
11. Jasprit Bumrah

I know it will be hard on Ashwin but the impact of Shardul Thakur in the previous tours of England and Australia just seals it for him ahead of Ashwin who maybe averaging under 30 in SENA for over 4-5 years but here you have Thakur who has done even better with both bat and bowl.

If Jadeja lacks impact with the bat, I really feel he can be replaced by Washington Sundar although they might not do it due to seniority culture but he is technically a very solid batsman and a good sole spin option as he showed in Brisbane in 2021.
Click to expand...

This is a good line up but they will most likely prefer Pujara and Rahane over Gill and Vihari. :inti
 
Too soon to be certain, there are still a couple of weeks before the team's departure. We should know more about the variant by then, let's hope it is as benign as alleged by some South African experts.
 
James said:
Clearly with the strong media activity there will be concerns, but hopefully the tour can go ahead. This current Indian team touring South Africa should be a showpiece series at the moment.
Click to expand...

Are SA any good these days? I admit I haven't followed their team after their star players retired. Hoping for a competitive series.
 
Correction para 3

JOHANNESBURG: It is a pleasure for Cricket South Africa (CSA) to confirm the updated schedule for the India men’s tour to South Africa. As announced over the weekend, the tour has been reduced from three series to two: the Betway Test and One-Day International series, taking place from 26 December to 23 January 2022 across four venues, following successful engagement with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The four-match KFC T20 international series will be rescheduled for a more opportune time in the new year.

The Test series will form part of the new cycle of the ICC World Test Championship, while the ODI series will be played as a bilateral.


The updated schedule is as follows:

26-30 December 21 1st Betway WTC Test vs India SuperSport Park, Centurion

03-07 January 22 2nd Betway WTC Test vs India Imperial Wanderers, Johannesburg

11-15 January 22 3rd Betway WTC Test vs India Six Gun Grill Newlands, Cape Town



*The first two Betway Test matches will commence at 10:00 SAST and the third will begin at 10:30 SAST.



19 January 22 1st Betway ODI vs India Eurolux Boland Park, Paarl

21 January 22 2nd Betway ODI vs India Eurolux Boland Park, Paarl

23 January 22 3rd Betway ODI vs India Six Gun Grill Newlands, Cape Town



*All Betway ODI matches will start at 10:30.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Would be great series . Good to see cricket progressing and accepting covid as way of life. I don’t think any spectators would be allowed as well. Would be good to catch up ODI cricket which has slowly faded out to T20s
 
CSA NAMES PROTEAS TEST SQUAD VS INDIA

Duanne Olivier recalled to the national team
Magala and Rickelton receive maiden Test team call-ups
Stuurman and Subrayen included for the second time
Tuesday, 07 December 2021

JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) is pleased to announce a 21-strong, Proteas Test squad that will take on India in three Betway Test matches from 26 December to 15 January 2022. The series will form part of the new cycle of the ICC World Test Championship and will be hosted in three venues namely; SuperSport Park, Imperial Wanderers and Six Gun Grill Newlands respectively.

The National Selection Panel has gone with the same core group that successfully toured the West Indies in June of this year and have included three others.

Proteas fans will be pleased to see the return to action of household names such as Kagiso Rabada, Quinton de Kock and Anrich Nortje as well as the reintroduction of seamer, Duanne Olivier, who has returned to the South African domestic set-up following a prolonged stint in the United Kingdom.

Olivier’s last Test appearance for South Africa was in Gqeberha against Sri Lanka in February of 2019. The 29-year-old has made a loud return to the CSA Four-Day Series, ending this year as the leading wicket taker, eight scalps clear of number two, Simon Harmer. Olivier has claim to 28 wickets in eight innings at an average of 11.14 and best innings bowling figures of 5/53.

Glenton Stuurman and Prenelan Subrayen have also received nods back into the team and Sisanda Magala and Ryan Rickelton will be pleased to receive their maiden Test team call-ups.

South Africa’s Test squad vs India is as follows:

Dean Elgar (captain, Momentum Multiply Titans), Temba Bavuma (vice-captain, Imperial Lions), Quinton de Kock (wicket-keeper, Momentum Multiply Titans), Kagiso Rabada (Imperial Lions), Sarel Erwee (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), Beuran Hendricks (Six Gun Grill Western Province), George Linde (Six Gun Grill Western Province), Keshav Maharaj (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), Lungi Ngidi (Momentum Multiply Titans), Aiden Markram (Momentum Multiply Titans), Wiaan Mulder (Imperial Lions), Anrich Nortje (Gbets Warriors), Keegan Petersen (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), Rassie van der Dussen (Imperial Lions), Kyle Verreynne (Six Gun Grill Western Province), Marco Jansen (Gbets Warriors), Glenton Stuurman (Gbets Warriors), Prenelan Subrayen (Hollywoodbets Dolphins), Sisanda Magala (Imperial Lions), Ryan Rickelton (Imperial Lions), Duanne Olivier (Imperial Lions).

CSA Convenor of Selectors, Victor Mpitsang said:

“We as the Selectors are excited for the return of Test cricket. This format is very important to CSA and keeping it relevant and alive is one of the organisation’s priorities.

“We are really looking forward to the return of Dean Elgar and his men, it’s been a long few months since the last time we saw them dominate in the West Indies. We are confident in the team that we have selected and believe fully in backing the talent that we have unearthed and cultivated over the last couple of seasons and giving players the backing that they deserve when they have continuously done well over a significant period of time.

“This Test series is also important in terms of getting some points in the Test Championship table and we are confident that this group will pick up from where they left off and give us a good show on home soil.

“On behalf of the Selectors, I would like to wish Dean (Elgar), Mark Boucher and the team all of the best for the next few weeks of what I’m certain will be really entertaining cricket.”


Betway Test Series Schedule


26-30 December 21 1st Betway WTC Test vs India SuperSport Park, Centurion

03-07 January 22 2nd Betway WTC Test vs India Imperial Wanderers, Johannesburg

11-15 January 22 3rd Betway WTC Test vs India Six Gun Grill Newlands, Cape Town



*The first two Betway Test matches will commence at 10:00 SAST and the third will begin at 10:30 SAST.
 
Rumours are surfacing that Rohit Sharma is /will be the white-ball captain of Indian team (that includes ODIs) and he will lead team in 2023 wc.

If not this series then the next but that is for certain.
 
Uncertainty Over Vice-captain's Position Ahead Of Team India's Squad Announcement For South Africa Tests: Sources To NDTV

India are slated to play three Tests in South Africa starting with the Boxing Day Test match in Centurion on December 26 followed by the second and third Test in Johannesburg (January 3) an Cape Town (January 11) respectively.

India's squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa is set to be announced in the next 24-48 hours. NDTV has learnt through its sources that the selectors are not willing to take any tough calls yet. The performances of some senior players like Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane and Ishant Sharma have been under the microscope, but all three are expected to be included in the squad. The sources have further told NDTV that there is uncertainty over who will be named as Virat Kohli's deputy for the upcoming series.

Both Rahane and Ishant missed the second Test against New Zealand due to injuries but are likely to be included in the squad. Sources have further confirmed that Hardik Pandya has made himself unavailable for the series.

Other players like Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, who were rested for the series against New Zealand, are expected to return to the squad.

Sources have further informed NDTV that head coach Rahul Dravid wants to interact with the players who were rested for the series against New Zealand. The squad will enter quarantine ahead of its likely departure to South Africa on December 16.

Uncertainty Over Vice-captain's Position Ahead Of Team India's Squad Announcement For South Africa Tests: Sources To NDTV
India are slated to play three Tests in South Africa starting with the Boxing Day Test match in Centurion on December 26 followed by the second and third Test in Johannesburg (January 3) an Cape Town (January 11) respectively.

Reported by Shashank Singh, Written by Aritra Mukherjee
Updated: December 07, 2021 11:30 PM IST

Read Time:2 min
[Uncertainty Over Vice-captain's Position Ahead Of Team India's Squad Announcement For South Africa Tests: Sources To NDTV]
File photo of India batter Ajinkya Rahane
Highlights

India's Test squad for South Africa series will be announced soon
There is uncertainty over vice-captain's position for the three Tests
The top cricketers rested for NZ series are likely to return for SA tour

India's squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa is set to be announced in the next 24-48 hours. NDTV has learnt through its sources that the selectors are not willing to take any tough calls yet. The performances of some senior players like Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane and Ishant Sharma have been under the microscope, but all three are expected to be included in the squad. The sources have further told NDTV that there is uncertainty over who will be named as Virat Kohli's deputy for the upcoming series.

Both Rahane and Ishant missed the second Test against New Zealand due to injuries but are likely to be included in the squad. Sources have further confirmed that Hardik Pandya has made himself unavailable for the series.

Other players like Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, who were rested for the series against New Zealand, are expected to return to the squad.

Sources have further informed NDTV that head coach Rahul Dravid wants to interact with the players who were rested for the series against New Zealand. The squad will enter quarantine ahead of its likely departure to South Africa on December 16.

Listen to the latest songs, only on JioSaavn.com

India are slated to play three Tests in South Africa starting with the Boxing Day Test match in Centurion on December 26 followed by the second and third Test in Johannesburg (January 3) an Cape Town (January 11) respectively.

The series was originally slated to begin on December 17 but was pushed back due to the rising cases of Omicron, the new COVID-19 variant, in South Africa.

https://sports.ndtv.com/cricket/unc...es-to-ndtv-2641532#pfrom=home-ndtv_topstories
 
Ravindra Jadeja,
Shubhman Gill and
Axar Patel
not in contention for SA tour due to injuries...

Gill and Patel out with shin injury.
 
Cover Drive Six said:
Ravindra Jadeja,
Shubhman Gill and
Axar Patel
not in contention for SA tour due to injuries...

Gill and Patel out with shin injury.
Click to expand...

Expected team :-

Rohit
KL
Mayank
Pujara
Kohli
Rahane
Vihari
Iyer

Pant
Saha

Sundar( for Jadeja)
Ashwin
One proper spinner( for Axar)
Shardul

Bumrah
Shami
Siraj
Umesh
Prasidh
 
Ab Fan said:
Expected team :-

Rohit
KL
Mayank
Pujara
Kohli
Rahane
Vihari
Iyer

Pant
Saha

Sundar( for Jadeja)
Ashwin
One proper spinner( for Axar)
Shardul

Bumrah
Shami
Siraj
Umesh
Prasidh
Click to expand...

We are missing two left arm spinners.
Do we have any backup for left arm spinners?
 
Unfortunate that good players are missing due to injury. But like to like replacements are already there and good opportunity for others. Mayank for gill and in most probability india will not need 2 spinners either. So just ashwin and Watson as reserve. May be also send kuldeep.
 
Already looking forward to the first day of the Test series for this on Boxing Day.

Hopefully it will be shown in the UK. Think Sky might have the rights for cricket in South Africa?
 
globalcitizen said:
Unfortunate that good players are missing due to injury. But like to like replacements are already there and good opportunity for others. Mayank for gill and in most probability india will not need 2 spinners either. So just ashwin and <B>Watson</B> as reserve. May be also send kuldeep.
Click to expand...

Washington
 
Seniority culture is hurting India's growth. Rahane must be having some one in high places to pull strings for him. There is no way this guy would not have lasted (that too as vice captain) this long without some external forces.
 
The Indian test squad has been announced for SA tour.

https://www.bcci.tv/articles/2021/news/158584/india-s-squad-for-tests-against-south-africa-announced

The All-India Senior Selection Committee has picked an 18-member squad for the upcoming 3-match Test series against South Africa starting from 26th December 2021. The Test series will form a part of the new cycle of the ICC World Test Championship.

India’s Test squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wk), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Md. Siraj.

Standby Players: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla.

The following players were not available for selection due to injuries and are currently undergoing rehabilitation: Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel, Rahul Chahar.

The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI & T20I teams going forward.
Click to expand...
 
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What a poor poor decision it is to keep playing Rahane! How many more time does this guy need to fail before being binned permanently?
 
The SA pacers taking on the Indian batters is a mouth watering prospect. One day closer.
 
As weak as this SA side has been for a while, it is still SA IN SA and that pace is starting to look mouth watering.

Rabada, Ngidi, Olivier and Nortje could all play, Maharaj is more than a handy spinner. All these guys could cause us problems, especially with Kohli and Pujara in such bad form.

This is Kohli's time for a come back and a career defining series victory, because if he fails again, I do not believe he should be an automatic selection in tests any more. A series with a lot of questions which will provide a lot of answers.
 
I don't think I can edit, so here's the XIs I would pick for Centurion:

SA XI -
1. Elgar c
2. Markram
3. Rassie VDD
4. Bavuma
5. Verreyne
6. QDK wk
7. Mulder
8. Maharaj
9. Rabada
10. Olivier
11. Nortje

That is a very fragile batting line up right there but Centurio is usually pacey for 3 quicks, a seam all rounder and Maharaj make up with a decent bowling unit. Ngidi misses out as he hasn't had much cricket of late (I think Covid?).

Indian XI -
1. Sharma
2. Agarwal
3. Pujara
4. Iyer
5. Kohli c
6. Pant wk (well this is the guy in the squad, shrug, might do well against wide bounce in SA)
7. Ashwin (not a great spinner away but a good batsman who is a clutch hand at times)
8. Shami
9. Bumrah
10. Siraj
11. Ishant/Yadav

An inexperienced batting line up at the top but one coming off of good performances, not sure about Sharma as test vc or automatic selection but he has to be now, yer and Gill are both promising and we really need titan Kohli back in form.

The bowling unit has good pace and wicket taking ability and spin may be needed later in the game.

I'm picking India to win at Centurion.
 
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