Pace-friendly conditions that India will find in South Africa will end up working in their favour as their recent success in Test series around the world has been down to their superior fire-power in the fast-bowling department, Zaheer Khan has said. The former India fast bowler tipped the team to record their first-ever Test series win in South Africa.
Zaheer said that while the batsmen have to score big, the main requirement of winning a Test match is taking 20 wickets, which the Indian bowlers have been doing consistently across conditions.
“India will definitely relish the South African conditions and the bowlers will enjoy bowling in those conditions. As a batting unit you need to put up a lot of runs on the board which is a basic requirement, but to win a Test match you need to take 20 wickets. The way Indian bowlers have been bowling, they will be able to do that. I am sure this Indian team will win their maiden series in South Africa,” he said.
Zaheer also said that while India will feel the absence of Rohit Sharma, there are a number of good options to take the Indian vice-captain’s place at the top of the order. Rohit was ruled out of the series with a hamstring injury.
“The quality of Rohit Sharma you are always going to miss. There is no doubt about it. But if you look at the squad, there are a number of good options to open for India. You need to wait and see which direction the team goes in. There are consistent performers in the team and the bench strength is also looking very good. It is a good headache to have for the team management,” said Zaheer.
