After the disheartening defeat in the finals of the ICC Cricket World Cup, the wounded Lions of India are ready to take on the proteas in a 2 match test series. The series is going to start with a boxing day test on Tuesday, 26th December at Supersport Park, Centurion. South Africa is the only place among SENA countries where Bleed Blue is unable to lift the Gandhi-Mandela trophy. India won the series in every test-playing nation except South Africa, this is one of the biggest red ball challenges Rohit Sharma has. 

In the head-to-head counter, India faces South Africa in 42 tests where the hosts have the upper hand over the visitors. SA won 17 test matches and India turned out victorious in 15 tests, rest of the matches resulted in a draw. 

The last series played between both of the teams was one-sided, where South Africa beat India by 2-1. India started the series with a win but was unable to give a fightback in the rest of the series. The series was full of controversy including the DRS and the judgement by umpaires. 

Rohit faces a daunting challenge in leading India to their first Test series victory in South Africa in 31 years. The Centurion track, known for its variable bounce and high speed, sets the stage for a gripping battle between bat and ball amid cooler, windy conditions. Past Indian captains and teams, including Azharuddin, Tendulkar, Ganguly, Dravid, Dhoni, and Kohli, have attempted but fell short in clinching this elusive series win.

Rohit shoulders the responsibility, seeking to heal recent World Cup disappointments with a much-needed series triumph. However, facing Temba Bavuma’s formidable South African team, known for its strong fast-bowling attack, poses a significant challenge. Bavuma, alongside retiring Dean Elgar, stylish Aiden Markram, exciting Tony de Zorzi, and determined Keegan Petersen, forms a potent batting lineup capable of testing India’s bowlers to their limits.