South Africa starting XI for India Tests and beyond?

[Ab Fan]

Here goes my starting XI:

Aiden Markram
Dean Elgar
Hashim Amla
AB de Villiers
Faf du plessis
Quinton de Kick
Temba Bavuma
Vernon Philander
Dale Steyn
Kagiso Rabada
Keshav Maharaj

Can this team turn things back and make SA again a no.1 team under the captaincy of Faf?

 

[R0H1T]

No, Steyn/ABDV/Philander/Amla are on their last legs. I'll give them anywhere between 1~3 years to retire from tests. In this time SA are likely to lose to Aus at least once, home or away, & probably India away. The only way SA go to numero Uno is if they demolish top teams at home, like India did in the last 2 years.

 

[Zeshan547]

Here goes my starting XI:

Aiden Markram
Dean Elgar
Hashim Amla
AB de Villiers
Faf du plessis
Quinton de Kick
Temba Bavuma
Vernon Philander
Dale Steyn
Kagiso Rabada
Keshav Maharaj

Can this team turn things back and make SA again a no.1 team under the captaincy of Faf?

Over the hill or not, at least on paper this is one heck of a team. India Will have to pull up something really extraordinary if they have to win series vs SAF, in SAF vs this playing XI,

 

[ExpressPacer]

SA need a good fast bowler other than Rabada and Steyn who is coming back from an injury.

Batting is as good as it gets. Markram is a potential ATG.

 

[ExpressPacer]

The problem is, India has absolutely no fast bowlers that will be effective on South African pitches. You need pace, bounce and agility to survive here and Indian's don't offer any of that. Apart from Yadav, I don't see anyone being half successful.

 

[Ab Fan]

No, Steyn/ABDV/Philander/Amla are on their last legs. I'll give them anywhere between 1~3 years to retire from tests. In this time SA are likely to lose to Aus at least once, home or away, & probably India away. The only way SA go to numero Uno is if they demolish top teams at home, like India did in the last 2 years.

SA won recently vs Aus in Aus with no Steyn and Abdv and without Amla making any contribution.

India are a great test side currently but given the record, winning a test series in SA is still a massive task.

SA might recently lose to Australia at home if they come up with the trio of Starc, Pattinson and Cummins but that is just after
the Ashes.

 

[Ab Fan]

Ashes and this series are going to be the highlights of next three months in cricketing world.

 

[jusarrived]

The problem is, India has absolutely no fast bowlers that will be effective on South African pitches. You need pace, bounce and agility to survive here and Indian's don't offer any of that. Apart from Yadav, I don't see anyone being half successful.

Indias best bowler for SA conditions is Shami . Not just conditions its the lenght he bowls which can trouble SA batsmen .

 

[jusarrived]

This is India's best chance to win a series in SA , if we dont win now I dont see us winning anytime soon considering everything is in Indias favour this time . A young settled side with adequate experience and high on confidence , while saffers have quite a few weak links cos some of their players being on their last legs .

 

[ExpressPacer]

Indias best bowler for SA conditions is Shami . Not just conditions its the lenght he bowls which can trouble SA batsmen .

Will he make the squad? When did he last play a test again? Always seems to be injured.

 

[Bilal7]

1) Markam
2) Elgar
3) Amla
4) ABD/Bavuma
5) Faf
6) de Kock
7) Philander
8) Parnell/Morris/Phelukwayo
9) Rabada
10) Morkel
11) Maharaj

Steyn isn't coming back for the series against India. There has been no news about a comeback that early. I can see him making the team for the series against Australia but it's quite tough for him to be back any earlier.

ABD might retire after the series against India and given his attitude, he's not even a semi-longterm option anymore. Bavuma will make a capable replacement when ABD does bid farewell and with Amla and Faf going strong, it shouldn't be too much of a problem.

South Africa won't be playing tests with just four bowlers anymore. They realize the value of five bowlers and Philander + a bowling all-rounder makes their batting quite deep.

Bavuma might have to sit out the next two series, which is fine given that South have met the recommended quotas in their previous few series. They have enough good credit in the bank to be able to play their strongest team.

 

[Bilal7]

Ashes and this series are going to be the highlights of next three months in cricketing world.

Agreed. India have a pretty good test team at the moment and South Africa is an unsettled team. Should be a great contest.

What would India's team look like?

 

[Napa]

Markram is a potential ATG.

And you base that on the sole fact that he beat up Bangladesh in SA?

 

[Napa]

This is India's best chance to win a series in SA , if we dont win now I dont see us winning anytime soon considering everything is in Indias favour this time .

I believe that as the years go by, India will produce better and better pacers, and SA will keep declining with their quotas. So expect India to win a lot against SA ten years from now.

 

[Bilal7]

I believe that as the years go by, India will produce better and better pacers, and SA will keep declining with their quotas. So expect India to win a lot against SA ten years from now.

A bold statement for someone who's team has never produced a single fast bowler of any notable repute.

India may produce better batsmen for the reasons you mentioned but better pacers than South Africa? A laughable, hollow claim based on absolutely zero evidence or historical data.

 

[Ab Fan]

Agreed. India have a pretty good test team at the moment and South Africa is an unsettled team. Should be a great contest.

What would India's team look like?

Unless it is a green pitch, they would most likely start with this:

Rahul
Vijay
Pujara
Kohli
Rahane
Saha
Ashwin
Jadeja
Bhuvi
Umesh
Shami

 

[Princejain191]

The problem is, India has absolutely no fast bowlers that will be effective on South African pitches. You need pace, bounce and agility to survive here and Indian's don't offer any of that. Apart from Yadav, I don't see anyone being half successful.

I know this might not be the popular opinion, but typical SA pitches would be ideal for Ishant Sharma. And yes, he has a ridiculous record in tests but since the NZ series in 2013, he has bowled with a better seam, bowled much fuller and has been consistent with line and lengths. I think his reputation has preceded his performances in our judgements.

Look at his series averages since 2013:
http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/en...pan;template=results;type=bowling;view=series

Given that 6 of those series have been in Asia, it is more than decent that he has averaged less than 33 in 5 out of 10 series and in the other 5: 2 series were 1-match series, had a horrible series in AUS in 2014, was excellent in 2016 series vs Aus but terribly unclucky and bowled with exceptional control, and look at his economy in SA series (1.67)

Also, look at this:
http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/en...4;spanval1=span;template=results;type=bowling

he has averaged 30 outside India since 2013 and has taken 59 wickets in 16 matches. This includes that awful Australia series where he averaged 48.

So, we can bank on Umesh, Ishant and hopefully Shami can be fit. Apart from that, Bhuvi can play a similar role to Philander and he can bowl at 135+ consistently now. Also, Shardul is a more than decent reserve.

 

[HIC]

Nope Pandya in place of Jadeja.

 

[Bilal7]

Unless it is a green pitch, they would most likely start with this:

Rahul
Vijay
Pujara
Kohli
Rahane
Saha
Ashwin
Jadeja
Bhuvi
Umesh
Shami

Seems pretty good. Although they might have Pandya in place of Umesh, to strenghten the batting and still have a third seam option.

 

[Princejain191]

I know this might not be the popular opinion, but typical SA pitches would be ideal for Ishant Sharma. And yes, he has a ridiculous record in tests but since the NZ series in 2013, he has bowled with a better seam, bowled much fuller and has been consistent with line and lengths. I think his reputation has preceded his performances in our judgements.

Look at his series averages since 2013:
http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/en...pan;template=results;type=bowling;view=series

Given that 6 of those series have been in Asia, it is more than decent that he has averaged less than 33 in 5 out of 10 series and in the other 5: 2 series were 1-match series, had a horrible series in AUS in 2014, was excellent in 2016 series vs Aus but terribly unclucky and bowled with exceptional control, and look at his economy in SA series (1.67)

Also, look at this:
http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/en...4;spanval1=span;template=results;type=bowling

he has averaged 30 outside India since 2013 and has taken 59 wickets in 16 matches. This includes that awful Australia series where he averaged 48.

So, we can bank on Umesh, Ishant and hopefully Shami can be fit. Apart from that, Bhuvi can play a similar role to Philander and he can bowl at 135+ consistently now. Also, Shardul is a more than decent reserve.

*2014

 

[Napa]

A bold statement for someone who's team has never produced a single fast bowler of any notable repute.

India may produce better batsmen for the reasons you mentioned but better pacers than South Africa? A laughable, hollow claim based on absolutely zero evidence or historical data.

Last time Yadav played Pakistan his figures were 7.4-1-30-3. Get ready for more pain, there is a lot more of that coming down the tube.

 

[Bilal7]

Last time Yadav played Pakistan his figures were 7.4-1-30-3. Get ready for more pain, there is a lot more of that coming down the tube.

Speaking of last time... If a 180 run victory in a CT final is pain, then I believe I'm a masochist.

I eagerly await more pain of this kind. Although first up are the South Africans.

 

[ExpressPacer]

And you base that on the sole fact that he beat up Bangladesh in SA?

No. I've been keeping up his career since the very start. SA has invested in this kid massively. He was prolific in the Under-19 circuit, very good and stood out in First Class and the performances vs Bangladesh are just proof to the fact that he is a potential ATG.

I called his success before he was even a thing on PP.

 

[ExpressPacer]

I know this might not be the popular opinion, but typical SA pitches would be ideal for Ishant Sharma. And yes, he has a ridiculous record in tests but since the NZ series in 2013, he has bowled with a better seam, bowled much fuller and has been consistent with line and lengths. I think his reputation has preceded his performances in our judgements.

Look at his series averages since 2013:
http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/en...pan;template=results;type=bowling;view=series

Given that 6 of those series have been in Asia, it is more than decent that he has averaged less than 33 in 5 out of 10 series and in the other 5: 2 series were 1-match series, had a horrible series in AUS in 2014, was excellent in 2016 series vs Aus but terribly unclucky and bowled with exceptional control, and look at his economy in SA series (1.67)

Also, look at this:
http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/en...4;spanval1=span;template=results;type=bowling

he has averaged 30 outside India since 2013 and has taken 59 wickets in 16 matches. This includes that awful Australia series where he averaged 48.

So, we can bank on Umesh, Ishant and hopefully Shami can be fit. Apart from that, Bhuvi can play a similar role to Philander and he can bowl at 135+ consistently now. Also, Shardul is a more than decent reserve.

Lets see, I'm not very optimistic about it considering Shami hasn't played enough cricket outside India. As for Ishant, not wise to bank your hopes on him. Your spearhead is Yadav.

 

[ExpressPacer]

Speaking of last time... If a 180 run victory in a CT final is pain, then I believe I'm a masochist.

I eagerly await more pain of this kind. Although first up are the South Africans.

Post of the week. ) ) ) )

 

[CanadianG00se]

Unless it is a green pitch, they would most likely start with this:

Rahul
Vijay
Pujara
Kohli
Rahane
Saha
Ashwin
Jadeja
Bhuvi
Umesh
Shami

Having both Jaddu and Ashwin in playing XI means we are basically playing with 3 bowlers or just two( BK will be ineffective if pitch is flat). You cant win test match with just two wicket taking options.

Id rather have this bowling line up
Pandya
K Yadav/ Ashwin
Shami
Umesh
Ishant/ BK ( If pitch is flat Ishant plays otherwise BK)

Playing two finger spinner is one of the reason why we always get hammered overseas. Despite all the recent hammerings if we cant learn the basic thing then we might as well just give up.

 

[Napa]

No. I've been keeping up his career since the very start. SA has invested in this kid massively. He was prolific in the Under-19 circuit, very good and stood out in First Class and the performances vs Bangladesh are just proof to the fact that he is a potential ATG.

I called his success before he was even a thing on PP.

You have been calling too early. His FC average is 46.5 and List A is 42. Hardly overwhelming numbers.

 

[CricFan2012]

South Africa are going through a transitioning period now or will soon, India will make the most of it and win the series, unless Kaggy has a Mitch patch.

 

[Napa]

South Africa are going through a transitioning period now or will soon, India will make the most of it and win the series, unless Kaggy has a Mitch patch.

If India do indeed win this series, they could retain their #1 ranking till the overseas tours are over and once they start playing a home again.

 

[ExpressPacer]

You have been calling too early. His FC average is 46.5 and List A is 42. Hardly overwhelming numbers.

I think you're forgetting that this isn't some Ranj Trophy played on flat pancakes against trundlers trying really hard to go over 130 KPH. A 23 year old with those numbers even on Indian pitches would be very impressive, let alone South African pitches with strong fast bowlers bowling in excess of 140 consistently.

Your agenda is pretty clear. Not even a person who barely watches cricket would call those numbers "hardly overwhelming", ESPECIALLY after the performances he dished out against a strong Bangladesh. Looks like you want him to destroy the Indian attack similar to Kock before you rate him, it's okay, that'll happen soon too.

 

[Napa]

I think you're forgetting that this isn't some Ranj Trophy played on flat pancakes against trundlers trying really hard to go over 130 KPH. A 23 year old with those numbers even on Indian pitches would be very impressive, let alone South African pitches with strong fast bowlers bowling in excess of 140 consistently.

Your agenda is pretty clear. Not even a person who barely watches cricket would call those numbers "hardly overwhelming", ESPECIALLY after the performances he dished out against a strong Bangladesh. Looks like you want him to destroy the Indian attack similar to Kock before you rate him, it's okay, that'll happen soon too.

"strong Bangladesh"???

Here are what overwhelming averages look like on non-Indian pitches for a future ATG:

FC 56.9
List A 46.6

http://www.espncricinfo.com/usa/content/player/267192.html

 

[Bubby]

The better 11 should be
Rahul
Vijay
Kohli
Pujara
Rahane
Saha
Pandya
Bhuvi
Kuldeep
Shami
Umesh

 

[CanadianG00se]

The better 11 should be
Rahul
Vijay
Kohli
Pujara
Rahane
Saha
Pandya
Bhuvi
Kuldeep
Shami
Umesh

That would be my playing XI as well. Only one change id make, bring Pujara at #3 and move Kohli to #4

 

[Ab Fan]

"strong Bangladesh"???

Here are what overwhelming averages look like on non-Indian pitches for a future ATG:

FC 56.9
List A 46.6

http://www.espncricinfo.com/usa/content/player/267192.html

LOL..The guy has just started his career and here we are debating whether he is a future ATG or not.

 

[ExpressPacer]

"strong Bangladesh"???

Here are what overwhelming averages look like on non-Indian pitches for a future ATG:

FC 56.9
List A 46.6

http://www.espncricinfo.com/usa/content/player/267192.html

You have SERIOUSLY got to be kidding me. First of all, yes, Bangladesh, on the back of wins against England and Australia are anything but minnows and performances against them WILL be taken seriously. Did you forget how they destroyed your overhyped, first string ODI team?

And, are you SERIOUS? Smith is already a borderline ATG. Ironic how you're comparing the First Class and List A record of two guys; one who started a decade ago and the other one just recently. Your agenda behind this is so clear.

 

[Bilal7]

The better 11 should be
Rahul
Vijay
Kohli
Pujara
Rahane
Saha
Pandya
Bhuvi
Kuldeep
Shami
Umesh

Kohli needs to be shielded against the new ball if you want him to score any runs in South Africa. Ideally, he would bat at #4 in the ODIs as well.

 

[Bubby]

Kohli needs to be shielded against the new ball if you want him to score any runs in South Africa. Ideally, he would bat at #4 in the ODIs as well.

I know you hate everything Indian, But Kohli has scored runs in Africa before, so you don't need to worry about him.

 

[Bubby]

That would be my playing XI as well. Only one change id make, bring Pujara at #3 and move Kohli to #4

I agree

 

[tandapanii]

I thought the India tests had been cancelled?

 

[jusarrived]

Will he make the squad? When did he last play a test again? Always seems to be injured.

I hope hes not ignored if hes fit , the other thing we dont need is some stupid team selections ..my biggest worry is , they may pick Dhawan over VJ . That could make all the difference

 

[Bewal Express]

The Saffers should be smashed by the Indians. The team is getting old, the bowling is weak without Morkle and they have issues with the ridiculous quota system. If the Indians hold their nerve they will win easily.

 

[AamchiMumbaikar]

India have never won a series in SA so we start as massive under dogs.

 

[Abdullah719]

I thought the India tests had been cancelled?

http://www.pakpassion.net/ppforum/s...ur-of-South-Africa-2018&p=9435515#post9435515

 

[Lefthanded]

Sidenote on quotas: I know Gibbs was technically non-white, which helped his chances of being in the team, but are there any in the their recent squad who pass as white but aren't? If so, this may work against Bavuma sooner or later. On performance, Bavuma has no place in any of the top nine test nations.

My ideal XI from the current set-up would be:

Markram, Elgar, Amla, ABD, Faf, QDK, Philander, Morkel, Steyn, Maharaj & Rabada.

Philander is pretty decent with the bat, and Steyn/Maharaj and Rabada aren't the worst tail. Unless Philander is operating on recent fitness, I'd bring Morris in instead.

Realistically, with Bavuma in the side, ABD comes in at the expensive either Morkel or Steyn. Morris may also replace a seamer other than Rabada.

 

[Princejain191]

1. KL Rahul; Should be a sure-starter - has been consistent in tough and easy conditions
2. M. Vijay; Would still take an experienced and an out-of-form Vijay over Dhawan and any newbie in SA
3. C. Pujara; Has been terribly out-of-form, needs to stick it out and show the resolve that he showed last time
4. V. Kohli; A lot rests on him, needs to come good if we are to win any matches here
5. A. Rahane; incredible on pitches with good bounce, hopefully the top order can negotiate the early swing/seam
6. W. Saha; Top-class wicket-keeper, needs to play gritty cricket, can bat with the tail
7. R. Jadeja/R. Ashwin/ Kuldeep Yadav; The role with the bat might be as important as that with ball - flatter the pitch - more preference to R. Jadeja, green mamba - go with Kuldeep
8. B. Kumar/ R. Ashwin/ Kuldeep Yadav; Purely dependent on the pitch - if the pitch helps seam - play Bhuvi, if not - choose between the other two
9. M. Shami - fitness is an issue, and needs to be more consistent with line and length, if the pitch is good for fast bowling - play Bhuvi over Shami
10. I. Sharma - The workhorse needs to play the enforcer and not just play the holding role, has been in incredible form
11. U. Yadav - will be the spearhead for the first time in his life, hopefully bowls like he has in the last 2 years

I believe we have a team to beat SA, just need to be at the top of our game and prepare well 2

 

[CanadianG00se]

1. KL Rahul; Should be a sure-starter - has been consistent in tough and easy conditions
2. M. Vijay; Would still take an experienced and an out-of-form Vijay over Dhawan and any newbie in SA
3. C. Pujara; Has been terribly out-of-form, needs to stick it out and show the resolve that he showed last time
4. V. Kohli; A lot rests on him, needs to come good if we are to win any matches here
5. A. Rahane; incredible on pitches with good bounce, hopefully the top order can negotiate the early swing/seam
6. W. Saha; Top-class wicket-keeper, needs to play gritty cricket, can bat with the tail
7. R. Jadeja/R. Ashwin/ Kuldeep Yadav; The role with the bat might be as important as that with ball - flatter the pitch - more preference to R. Jadeja, green mamba - go with Kuldeep
8. B. Kumar/ R. Ashwin/ Kuldeep Yadav; Purely dependent on the pitch - if the pitch helps seam - play Bhuvi, if not - choose between the other two
9. M. Shami - fitness is an issue, and needs to be more consistent with line and length, if the pitch is good for fast bowling - play Bhuvi over Shami
10. I. Sharma - The workhorse needs to play the enforcer and not just play the holding role, has been in incredible form
11. U. Yadav - will be the spearhead for the first time in his life, hopefully bowls like he has in the last 2 years

I believe we have a team to beat SA, just need to be at the top of our game and prepare well 2

If India plays two spinners( that too finger spinner) then rest assured phainty is on the cards.

 

[Princejain191]

If India plays two spinners( that too finger spinner) then rest assured phainty is on the cards.

I don't know man. Their finger-spinner hasn't done bad and SA isn't known to play spin too well. M. Ali made them dance in England. The problem outside Asia has been our fast bowlers. If our fast bowlers can create pressure and pick wickets, then spinners - I am sure - will look more effective. There is a multitude of difference between coming on to bowl in 20th over when the score is 75-1 and when it is 55-3 (which is not unreasonable to expect in SA). Umesh, Shami, Bhuvi and Ishant have to do well. Spinners will handle themselves - they are world-class.

 

[CanadianG00se]

I don't know man. Their finger-spinner hasn't done bad and SA isn't known to play spin too well. M. Ali made them dance in England. The problem outside Asia has been our fast bowlers. If our fast bowlers can create pressure and pick wickets, then spinners - I am sure - will look more effective. There is a multitude of difference between coming on to bowl in 20th over when the score is 75-1 and when it is 55-3 (which is not unreasonable to expect in SA). Umesh, Shami, Bhuvi and Ishant have to do well. Spinners will handle themselves - they are world-class.

Finger spinner comes into play mostly in second innings, but what if they score massive in first innings and never required to bat again?

Moeen Ali did that at home in second innings, but you cant be serious if you think we should have Ashwin and Jaddu both in team. Ali mostly took lower order batsmen, so seamers did the job removing top order. We will fail if we go with just two seamers and Pandya. We really need just one spinner in overseas conditions, have we not learned from history. We always played two spinners in past and always got our backside handed to us. If we play 2 finger spinner, i wont be surprised if we are thrashed like BD or even worse.

 

[Princejain191]

Finger spinner comes into play mostly in second innings, but what if they score massive in first innings and never required to bat again?

Moeen Ali did that at home in second innings, but you cant be serious if you think we should have Ashwin and Jaddu both in team. Ali mostly took lower order batsmen, so seamers did the job removing top order. We will fail if we go with just two seamers and Pandya. We really need just one spinner in overseas conditions, have we not learned from history. We always played two spinners in past and always got our backside handed to us. If we play 2 finger spinner, i wont be surprised if we are thrashed like BD or even worse.

If you really look at my team, I have three specialist fast bowlers and no Pandya. We can play two spinners if the pitch happens to be flat, otherwise go with one. I am not for playing two finger spinners but I will say this again, the spinners won't be a problem if fast bowlers do their work. All three spinners are world-class.

 

[CanadianG00se]

If you really look at my team, I have three specialist fast bowlers and no Pandya. We can play two spinners if the pitch happens to be flat, otherwise go with one. I am not for playing two finger spinners but I will say this again, the spinners won't be a problem if fast bowlers do their work. All three spinners are world-class.

Why do you think an extra spinner is better option than Pandya? I think Kohli and co will play Pandya regardless of pitch conditions which is why we saw him play games against Lanka. Also looking at the recent trend dont think SA will provide us with green mambas, its mostly gonna be flat pitch with bit of bounce in it. Ishant Sharma would be an ideal choice if pitch is flat with bounce instead of Bhuvi.

Pandya
K Yadav/ Jaddu/ Ashwin
U Yadav
M Shami
BK/ Ishant

What do you think of that bowling line up?

 

[Princejain191]

Why do you think an extra spinner is better option than Pandya? I think Kohli and co will play Pandya regardless of pitch conditions which is why we saw him play games against Lanka. Also looking at the recent trend dont think SA will provide us with green mambas, its mostly gonna be flat pitch with bit of bounce in it. Ishant Sharma would be an ideal choice if pitch is flat with bounce instead of Bhuvi.

Pandya
K Yadav/ Jaddu/ Ashwin
U Yadav
M Shami
BK/ Ishant

What do you think of that bowling line up?

I expect fast-bowling friendly pitches with Faf as captain. He has clearly said that to the countrys' groundsmen and SA would remember their last India tour. I hope we don't play Pandya - he is a bits and pieces test cricketer. I haven't seen him play in seaming conditions and he might have a hard time against Rabada, Philander and Morkel/Steyn. Also, he is bound to be figured out in some time - quite a few chunks in his armoury. As far as his bowling is concerned, he would be fodder to the fire against SA. He won't get those bad ball wickets in tests and he isn't good enough otherwise.

I would definitely play Ishant irrespective of the conditions. Has to be between Shami and Bhuvi for me - can't play both, the tail would be too long. We might go with one spinner and Pandya if we play four genuine bowlers (I hope not), or two spinners.

 

[CanadianG00se]

I expect fast-bowling friendly pitches with Faf as captain. He has clearly said that to the countrys' groundsmen and SA would remember their last India tour. I hope we don't play Pandya - he is a bits and pieces test cricketer. I haven't seen him play in seaming conditions and he might have a hard time against Rabada, Philander and Morkel/Steyn. Also, he is bound to be figured out in some time - quite a few chunks in his armoury. As far as his bowling is concerned, he would be fodder to the fire against SA. He won't get those bad ball wickets in tests and he isn't good enough otherwise.

I would definitely play Ishant irrespective of the conditions. Has to be between Shami and Bhuvi for me - can't play both, the tail would be too long. We might go with one spinner and Pandya if we play four genuine bowlers (I hope not), or two spinners.

If they prepare green mambas than it will give us more chances of winning than on flat pattas. Its that flat pitches where we struggled to take 20 wickets. We have defeated them at their home on green pitch before and certainly can do it again.
I disagree with you that Pandya is bits and peice cricketer. He is yet to be tested in test cricket, so to write him off before he gets proper chance will be unfair. Give him atleast 2-3 series in overseas conditions before passing a judgement. He has shown that he is avid learner and will put in extra mile to work on his weakness. Now compare him what he is today to one when he mad debut, back then people wrote him off said he is hack and what not, but now he have come across matured batsman who can build partnership as well score quickly.

Lets reserve our judgement till we get to see him play more matches, who he might just surprise us

 

[tandapanii]

http://www.pakpassion.net/ppforum/s...ur-of-South-Africa-2018&p=9435515#post9435515

Ah its back on. SA to 3-0 even with their downward side.

 

[RamLakhan]

Pandya will definitely play (at least the first test match). No doubt about it. Also even 5 bowlers theory will continue (again at least the first test match) unless we lose the first test very badly! The only issue will be whether to play 2 spinners or not. But I hope the team management & Kohli have learnt that Ashwin & Jadeja are proving ineffective outside India (even in LOIs in India). So only one out of those would/should be retained (for experience factors). I personally would go with Jadeja. This would be my XI for the 1st Test Match:

Rahul
Vijay
Pujara
Kohli
Rahane
Pandya
Saha
Jadeja
Shami
Umesh
Ishant

I would bring Kuldeep as a mysterious weapon in the 2nd or 3rd test match especially if we win the 1st match (also depending on the kind of pitch). I don't want SA to get a good look at him, because after that he can start going for lots of runs on those pitches. With 3 regular seamers and Pandya's backup, I would ask all the fast bowlers to go all out and attack in brief spells. That is the way to pick 20 wickets and win Test Matches on such pitches. I have hope because they (our fast bowlers) did pretty good job even at home in last 2-3 test series sometimes overshadowing even spinners! So the best way to go is to rotate them properly...

With this lineup we are also assuring that we have pretty strong batting lineup with Pandya's maturity coming handy (instead of depending on Saha or Ashwin at No.6) So our first safety measure of not losing the test match with weakened batting line up (aggressive 5 bowlers unit) is served!

Anyhow I am excited about this series regardless of team-selection and results. Its about how the team management thinks & how they execute. They definitely have a team to work with...

 

[Hasan123]

I would go with OPs team. This is India's best chance to win in South Africa.

 

[Cricfan4eva]

I think India would do well to draw the series. We simply don't have the bowling to bowl out SA twice. Bumrah/Bhuvneshwar are getting better in ODI's but tests is whole different game. And you need a third pacer to be on it. Ishant for all his experience will turn up in 1/6 innings in those 3 tests.

Last time focus wasn't much on Kohli to perform, this time he will be the target. Rabada, Steyn, Morkel will be on him. Will be interesting to see how he fares. He's been going through a bit of a poor run in tests.

 

[troodon]

Here goes my starting XI:

Aiden Markram
Dean Elgar
Hashim Amla
AB de Villiers
Faf du plessis
Quinton de Kick
Temba Bavuma
Vernon Philander
Dale Steyn
Kagiso Rabada
Keshav Maharaj

Can this team turn things back and make SA again a no.1 team under the captaincy of Faf?

That's a pretty stacked team right there. India will be lucky to win even 1 Test.

However, this is the best Indian line up in the last 5 Years and their best chance to beat SA considering Steyn is not in his prime anymore.

 

[Ab Fan]

I think India would do well to draw the series. We simply don't have the bowling to bowl out SA twice. Bumrah/Bhuvneshwar are getting better in ODI's but tests is whole different game. And you need a third pacer to be on it. Ishant for all his experience will turn up in 1/6 innings in those 3 tests.

Last time focus wasn't much on Kohli to perform, this time he will be the target. Rabada, Steyn, Morkel will be on him. Will be interesting to see how he fares. He's been going through a bit of a poor run in tests.

I am sure SA won't lose this too easily given quite a few players are making comeback in test team and they would look to start on a high note.

A bowling attack of Steyn, Rabada and Philander is what India will be facing if Steyn confirms his comeback.Elgar and de kock have established themselves too off late.

But yes India's best chance to win a series in SA this time.

 

[Ab Fan]

That's a pretty stacked team right there. India will be lucky to win even 1 Test.

However, this is the best Indian line up in the last 5 Years and their best chance to beat SA considering Steyn is not in his prime anymore.

What are your expectations from the pitches??

Bowling paradise??

 

[Princejain191]

If they prepare green mambas than it will give us more chances of winning than on flat pattas. Its that flat pitches where we struggled to take 20 wickets. We have defeated them at their home on green pitch before and certainly can do it again.
I disagree with you that Pandya is bits and peice cricketer. He is yet to be tested in test cricket, so to write him off before he gets proper chance will be unfair. Give him atleast 2-3 series in overseas conditions before passing a judgement. He has shown that he is avid learner and will put in extra mile to work on his weakness. Now compare him what he is today to one when he mad debut, back then people wrote him off said he is hack and what not, but now he have come across matured batsman who can build partnership as well score quickly.

Lets reserve our judgement till we get to see him play more matches, who he might just surprise us

True, we do better away on helpful pitches. As far as Pandya is concerned, I don't see how he gets into the test setup with his first class record to be honest. But Kohli likes him, so lets see if he can adapt to the test format. Still sceptical, though.

SA has a solid team, hoping for a competitive series.

 

[Cricfan4eva]

I am sure SA won't lose this too easily given quite a few players are making comeback in test team and they would look to start on a high note.

A bowling attack of Steyn, Rabada and Philander is what India will be facing if Steyn confirms his comeback.Elgar and de kock have established themselves too off late.

But yes India's best chance to win a series in SA this time.

Huh?

I said the opposite. Though India seem a settled side, they look completely different when pitch isn't suiting them. And add to it no practice, tbh we are doomed. It's right there. Kohli has already said that scheduling is something BCCI needs to address because it will mean India won't do well away if they aren't fresh.

And just how did BCCI address? Host a meaningless ODI series with NZ, and return SL series days ahead of SA tour.

 

[Ab Fan]

Huh?

I said the opposite. Though India seem a settled side, they look completely different when pitch isn't suiting them. And add to it no practice, tbh we are doomed. It's right there. Kohli has already said that scheduling is something BCCI needs to address because it will mean India won't do well away if they aren't fresh.

And just how did BCCI address? Host a meaningless ODI series with NZ, and return SL series days ahead of SA tour.

It is absurd to play a test series vs SL jUST a month before touring SA.

 

[Princejain191]

Huh?

I said the opposite. Though India seem a settled side, they look completely different when pitch isn't suiting them. And add to it no practice, tbh we are doomed. It's right there. Kohli has already said that scheduling is something BCCI needs to address because it will mean India won't do well away if they aren't fresh.

And just how did BCCI address? Host a meaningless ODI series with NZ, and return SL series days ahead of SA tour.

Kolkata vs NZ and Dharamshala vs Aus - The pitches didn't suit us but we won both the matches. We have the fast bowlers and the attitude to adjust to different conditions, but yes, the scheduling can be a big problem.

 

[Bilal7]

Huh?

I said the opposite. Though India seem a settled side, they look completely different when pitch isn't suiting them. And add to it no practice, tbh we are doomed. It's right there. Kohli has already said that scheduling is something BCCI needs to address because it will mean India won't do well away if they aren't fresh.

And just how did BCCI address? Host a meaningless ODI series with NZ, and return SL series days ahead of SA tour.

India do have practice matches scheduled. That should be enough to get them used to the weather and conditions.

 

[The_Odd_One]

Vijay
Rahul
Pujara
Dravid
Rahane
Pandya
Ashwin
Saha
Bhuvi
Shami
Yadav

vs

Elgar
Markram
Amla
Devilliers
Du Plessis
Bhavuma
De Kock
Philander
Rabada
Steyn
Maharaj

What a competition it will be!

 

[Ted123]

Vijay
Rahul
Pujara
Dravid
Rahane
Pandya
Ashwin
Saha
Bhuvi
Shami
Yadav

vs

Elgar
Markram
Amla
Devilliers
Du Plessis
Bhavuma
De Kock
Philander
Rabada
Steyn
Maharaj

What a competition it will be!

Any typo mistake in India's lineup there?

 

[Abdullah719]

Any typo mistake in India's lineup there?

Looks fine to me.

 

[The_Odd_One]

Any typo mistake in India's lineup there?

Sorry Kohli instead of Dravid

 

[troodon]

Vijay/Dhawan
Rahul
Pujara
Kohli
Rahane
Pandya
Ashwin
BK/Jaddu (Depending on the pitch)
Shami
Yadav

Above is a 10 member squad. With Pandya as A/R, we have the option to fit in another batsman if needed. Or we can add Kuldeep as a mystery spinner.

 

[Cricfan4eva]

India do have practice matches scheduled. That should be enough to get them used to the weather and conditions.

A 3 day practice game for 3 test series isn't the most ideal way to prepare.

 

[Hasan123]

India 11

Vijay
KL
Pujara
Kohli
Rahane
Pandaya
Saha
Ashwin
Shami
Yadav
Bhuvi/Ishant/Kuldeep/Jadeja dependent on conditions tbh

South Africa 11(provided everyone is fit)
Markham
Elgar
Amla
Bavuma
ABD
Faf
De Kock
Vernon
Rabada
Mahraj
Steyn

What a series it could be.