 With
less than 40 days to go in the World Cup a series between the giants India
and South Africa is all set to be epic. The five match series will be of huge
significance in leading the World Cup preparations of these two countries.
This series is the last cricket action in which India and South Africa will
take place before World Cup. The Test series was expectedly thrilling and so
promises the one day series which starts on Wednesday, January 12.
Click for Live Score Card of South Africa Vs India
South Africa would be a touch disappointed after not being able to win the
Test series and getting overhauled by India in the only T20. Psychological stakes
may seem even but it is South Africa who are likely to be feeling more heat
now.
Jacques Kallis has been left out of the series due to injury. Uncapped players
Imran Tahir, the Pakistani born leg spinner and Faf du Plessis, the Titans batsman
are included in the squad. Morne Morkel, Dale Steyn and Lonwabo Tsotsobe
are likely starters for Wednesday's game and would be looking to have a go at
the Indian batting lineup.
Graeme Smith will continue to lead the ODI side and AB de Villiers will keep
wickets. Absence of Kallis will ask for more dependability by Hashim Amla, de
Villiers and the youngster Colin Ingram. South Africa have been a tough to beat
at home for subcontinent teams and they would be hoping it stays that way.
South Africa have won three of their last five ODIs
India have injury problems more severe than South Africans. After Virender
Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir has also been ruled out of the series.
Murali Vijay and Rohit Sharma have been included in the squad for one day series.
India are now left with no regular opener to play at Kingsmead on January 12.
Most of the Indian batsman have been in good form especially Virat Kohli, he
was particularly impressive against New Zealand.
Indian bowling attack, although boosted by return of Ashish Nehra is expected
to have a tough time on a placid track at Kingsmead. Zaheer Khan and
Harbajhan Singh after a good Test series would be looking to build on their
successes. South African pitches will be hostile and Indian bowlers will have
to bend their backs to get something out of the tracks. India have the physiological
edge over South Africa after defeating them in the only T20 and drawing
the Test series. But in cricket, things can turn around very quickly.
India have won all of their last five ODIs.
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