India will aim to replicate their successful home formula of strong first-innings totals and relentless spin pressure in the short two-Test series against South Africa, starting in Kolkata on Friday.
Shubman Gill’s men, currently third in the World Test Championship standings, began their 2025–27 campaign with a 2-2 draw in England before sweeping West Indies 2-0 at home.
World champions South Africa, who drew 1-1 in Pakistan, will face a stiffer challenge in the eastern Indian venues of Kolkata and Guwahati. Though bolstered by the return of fit-again captain Temba Bavuma, the visitors know subcontinental conditions will test their adaptability.
India will count on their top order to blunt the new-ball threat led by Kagiso Rabada. The aggressive Yashasvi Jaiswal forms a dynamic opening partnership with the composed KL Rahul or skipper Gill, setting the tone for the innings.
The return of first-choice wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant strengthens India’s middle order but also poses a selection dilemma after Dhruv Jurel’s impressive showing against West Indies in both departments.
To counter South Africa’s batting threats such as Aiden Markram and Tony de Zorzi, India will once again rely on spin, low bounce, and reverse swing. Jasprit Bumrah’s skill with both the new and old ball will be crucial against a visiting side featuring eight players yet to play a Test in India.
For the tourists, Bavuma’s leadership and Keshav Maharaj’s experience will be key. The Proteas will also be mindful of left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who has rediscovered form and confidence in the longest format.
South Africa’s inclusion of three specialist spinners and batter Zubayr Hamza highlights their recognition of spin’s importance in Indian conditions.
“There’s a real hunger and desire to beat India in India,” Maharaj said on Tuesday. “It’s probably one of the toughest assignments on the Proteas calendar, but a great chance to test how far we’ve come. We’ve begun to conquer other parts of the subcontinent — now this is the challenge we really want to take on.”
