Faf Du Plessis wary of a potential Indian comeback at Centurion

As the cricketing action shifts from Cape Town to Centurion, both teams have been gearing up for the upcoming challenge. Proteas skipper Faf du Plessis could be seen having a close look at the pitch. There’s no doubt that the captain would’ve preferred a similar pitch from the Cape Town one to trouble the visitors with pace and bounce.

Ahead of the second Test match, Faf indicated that they weren’t taking India lightly. The skipper mentioned the same at the pre-match conference. He further spoke about the pitch, absence of Dale Steyn and their pace bowling unit.

With India ranked at the top in the test rankings, they are bound to make a strong comeback. Also with the splendour displayed in the first Test match, Du Plessis is aware that they cannot undermine India. Further, he mentioned that while the pitch may assist pacers, it wasn’t as green as the Cape Town wicket.

“We expect a huge performance from them as they are a very strong team. We don’t want to take a step back and rely on a 1-0 lead as if you do that they will pounce on you. I expect a good cricketing wicket with pace and bounce but it certainly looks browner than the previous one.” Du Plessis said at the pre-match presser.

Dale Steyn among the world’s best bowler 

The Proteas were left one pacer short in Cape Town as Steyn walked back midway owing to an injury. Du Plessis rated him amongst the world’s best bowlers and explained his versatility in the team.

“The team that we selected last week was what we thought was the best team, Dale Steyn is among the world’s best bowler and he brings a lot to the table. With him missing, it will be a tough selection but it is a nice headache to have,” he added.

Skipper praises bowling unit

The trio of Kagiso Rabada, Vernon Philander and Morne Morkel is all set to retain themselves. However, in Steyn’s absence, South Africa will probably have to make a choice between pacer Ngidi and all-rounder Chris Morris. It will also be interesting to see if Keshav Maharaj is included. Speaking about the bowling unit, Du Plessis was all praise for the duo of Rabada and Philander.

“Rabada is a strong athlete and a strong bowler, he can bowl throughout the day, his best is yet to come as he is still learning. On the other hand, Vernon Philander has worked on his fitness and has really improved as a bowler. He wanted the ball the whole time and never got tired, which was good to see,” Faf du Plessis concluded.

South Africa have a pretty good record at the Supersport Park in Centurion having lost just twice and won 17 games. They’ll be looking to seal the series here itself.