Green-tinged surface grabs attention ahead of South Africa-India Cape Town Test

Ahead of the high-stakes clash between India and South Africa in the final Test at Newlands, Cape Town, attention has turned to the pitch, with images revealing a verdant green surface blanketed in grass. The pitch’s appearance suggests a promising prospect for bowlers, hinting at substantial seam movement and bounce. Anticipation mounts as bowlers eye the potential advantages offered by the conditions. The stage seems set for an enthralling battle between bat and ball in this crucial encounter.

In their quest to level the series, India brace for a crucial showdown against South Africa at Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town on January 3. With a trailing score of 0-1, Rohit Sharma's squad eyes a triumph to cap off their month-long tour, aiming to break their streak of setbacks at this formidable venue.

Newlands has witnessed 59 international Tests, the latest being the clash between South Africa and India where the latter faced defeat. India's record at this ground comprises six Tests without a single win. The hosts have dominated with four victories against India, while two matches concluded in a draw. The upcoming Test poses a significant challenge for India, requiring them to overcome historical setbacks to clinch a maiden victory at Newlands and level the series.

Cape Town will bring honesty out of both the attacks: Alan Donald

In the Centurion Test, Indian pace bowlers struggled to maintain patience on a challenging bowling surface, as noted by the esteemed Allan Donald. Contrary to the previous pitch conditions, the former South Africa pacer emphasised the crucial requirement for patience on a batter-friendly Newlands track, where spinners are expected to have minimal impact. India's loss in the first Test, conceding 408 runs on a lively Centurion pitch, highlighted the necessity for adaptability and composure, lacking in their approach.

“Come Cape Town, it will be hard work and there will be a lot more energy from both teams. Cape Town will be hard work and it will bring honesty out of both the attacks. You need to be more creative in Cape Town as wickets are a lot more flatter and partnerships will stretch and that's traditionally as someone who knows it will be tougher Tests," Donald said as quoted by The Times of India.