India vs South Africa, 2015 Test Series - Player battles

The exciting Test series between India and South Africa is set to get going at Mohali on Thursday. South Africa are so far unbeaten in Test series outside home in last 9 years while India have lost only one Test series at home in last 10 years. Both the teams have a crucial set of players to keep their streaks intact. Here we look at the players on either of the sides with common responsibilities.

India vs South Africa, 2015 Test Series – Player battles:

Murali Vijay vs Hashim Amla:

Opener Murali Vijay has been the most consistent performer for India in last 2 years. Given India will be playing for the first time in India since 2013, Vijay will be feeling comfortable. It will be interesting to see how well Vijay helps India in getting a good start after been rusty in recent Sri Lankan tour coming from an injury recovery.

Murali Vijay:

Mat – 33, Inns – 58, Nos – 0, Runs – 2420, Best – 167, Avg – 41.72, S/R – 47.34, 50s – 11, 100s – 6.

Hashim Amla on the other hand, will be having the extra responsibility of captaincy. Batting at no.3, Amla needs to stabilize the South African innings in case of early wickets. Despite having a good Test record and moreover an amazing number on Indian soil, Amla would be looking to get going after a disappointing ODI series.

Hashim Amla:

Mat – 84, Inns – 142, Nos – 13, Runs – 6770, Best – 311*, Avg – 52.48, S/R – 51.59, 50s – 28, 100s – 23.