India’s Test squad in South Africa: Does it have the firepower to humble the hosts?

Hardik Pandya:

A sensational all-rounder India have seen after a long time, 24-year-old Hardik Pandya will be a key contributor in SA. He has played just three Tests so far and has already hit a hundred besides a fifty on debut, averaging nearly 60.

He has four wickets in his kitty so far and will definitely use the lively wickets in SA to add to his tally. Can Hardik be India’s answer to South African great Jacques Kallis this time?

Jasprit Bumrah:

Jasprit Bumrah got his first Test call in the series against South Africa and it will certainly be a memorable moment for him. The right-arm medium pacer has already made a name in the ODI and T20 versions by performing consistently and will be looking to grab his first Test cap in the upcoming tour.

For India, Bumrah could be the perfect fit for the supporting pacer’s slot, something the team has often missed in the past.

Parthiv Patel:

The wicket-keeper and the left-handed batsman could be a key member in India’s scheme of things for the 32-year-old has the experience of touring South Africa in the past, even though it was during the World Cup of 2003.

Patel also has an experience of touring Australia and all that can help him chip in if the challenge so demands. Patel is going as the second wicket-keeper after Wriddhiman Saha and could be handy if he gets an opportunity to play.

Murali Vijay:

A veteran opener with an on and off form, 33-year-old Vijay had an impressive last 12 months and the team will look to see more gems coming out of his bat in South Africa.

Vijay’s average of 28.60 versus SA is lower than his overall average of 41.57 but his 97 off 226 balls against the Proteas in Durban in 2013 is considered one of his finest innings. Vijay has done very well in Australia where he averages over 60. Can’t he do the same in South Africa?