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Brilliant Bavuma’s message for India: Be careful what you wish for

admin — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 19:00:00 +0000

In the 2012-13 series against England, when skipper M.S. Dhoni asked for a turning track at Eden Gardens, the curator Prabhir Mukherjee told him this was “immoral.” Coach Gautam Gambhir’s instructions, however, were taken on board by Mukherjee’s successor, but India lost again, making it four in six at home.

Visiting spinners claiming more wickets than Indians on home tracks is not a recent phenomenon. India lost to Australia in 1969-70 despite fielding the great spinners Erapalli Prasanna (26 wickets), Bishan Bedi (21), and S. Venkatraghavan and better batters against spin in the line-up. Ashley Mallett (28) and John Glesson (10) were the successful spinners while medium pacers Graham McKenzie and Alan Connolly had 38 wickets between them.

“Better batters against spin” turned out to be an exaggeration then, as it appears to be now. The Indian spinners kept telling their batters, as Bedi often reminded us, “Please give us at least 250 runs to bowl at.”

Challenging the home team

In the last century, home tracks often challenged the home team. Richie Benaud (23 wickets to Vinoo Mankad’s 11 and Subhash Gupte’s 12) in 1956 (Australia won 2-0), Derek Underwood (29 to Bedi’s 25) in 1975-76 as England won 3-1 are other examples. Just over a decade ago, England won a series in India after 28 years thanks to Graeme Swann (20 wickets) and Monty Panesar (17). By themselves these statistics may not tell the whole story, but together they point to a pattern, perhaps suggesting the adage about spin in India might not necessarily be true.

It is also useful to remember that just as India’s game against pace and swing while playing abroad has improved well enough to win them series in Australia and England, the preparation against spin by visiting teams has seen a sea-change too.

Gambhir might have, by his own admission, got the wicket he wanted in Kolkata, but you have to be careful what you wish for. If two spinners cannot do the job, there is little point in picking four, at least one of whom is bound to be under-bowled, and only one can be classed a genuine Test all-rounder.

So where did India lose the Test? When they were dismissed for 189 in the first innings? When they collapsed in the second? On the third morning, India took their foot off the pedal, allowing South Africa to score 60 runs. Some of their intensity was gone. India seemed to feel it was only a matter of time, as if their win was pre-ordained and South Africa’s batters would merely have to play out the roles allotted to them.

Missing a trick

This is a dangerous attitude in Test cricket. Things don’t just happen, you have to go out and make them happen. Rishabh Pant, normally a proactive captain might have delayed bringing on Jasprit Bumrah. You start the day’s play with your best bowler; especially against the bottom half of the batting. That is woven into the fabric of strategy.

Gambhir may have been right when he said that the 124 to win was gettable. Clearly he didn’t explain how and why well enough to his batters. South Africa were superb, India choked.

Temba Bavuma didn’t get to lead his team to ten wins in 11 matches by hanging around and allowing things to happen. He made things happen. His captaincy is a lesson for both Pant and Gill, the latter forced to watch from his hospital bed (if at all). Quietly, professionally, Bavuma went about his business. He should have been Player-of-the-Match as much for his captaincy as for his batting. In Marco Jansen and off-spinner Simon Harmer he had men for the job. Their self-belief was evident.

Indian batters tend to look down upon off spin, viewing it as fodder in any format. Perhaps that’s why Washington Sundar was given just one over on a helpful track.

India were once seen as tigers at home, but lambs abroad. The turnaround has been startling. If Gambhir is beginning to feel insecure, he has time enough to look afresh at the team’s attitude. It ain’t over till the fat lady sings is a cliché in sport for a good reason.

Published – November 19, 2025 12:30 am IST

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Dark Horses Afghanistan Eye Another Good Show, South Africa Aim To Shed Chokers Tag

admin — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 08:01:34 +0000

Debutants Afghanistan will aim to continue their impressive rise in white-ball cricket, while South Africa will once again attempt to shed the ‘chokers’ tag when the two sides kick off their Champions Trophy campaign in Karachi on Friday. The inaugural Champions Trophy in 1998, which was called the Knockout Trophy at that time, remains the only ICC men’s senior title that South Africa have secured despite having produced some of the world’s greatest cricketers, especially in limited-overs format. The Proteas boast of a well-balanced squad with a formidable batting lineup.

While skipper Temba Bavuma, Tony de Zorzi, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram will anchor the top order, the big-hitting trio of Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller and Tristan Stubbs are well-equipped to provide the final flourish.

South Africa’s biggest challenge heading into the tournament is their depleted bowling attack as key pacers Anrich Nortje, Nandre Burger, and Gerald Coetzee ruled out due to injuries.

Known for his pace, aggression, and the knack of striking at crucial moments, Kagiso Rabada will be the Proteas’ key weapon in both the powerplay and death overs.

Marco Jansen, too, will be expected to step up significantly. His ability to build pressure and deliver impactful spells will be crucial.

Meanwhile, Lungi Ngidi will be looking to rediscover his rhythm and confidence after a below-par showing in the recent tri-series.

In the spin department, Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi will have vital roles.

Since the 2023 ODI World Cup, South Africa have won only four of the 14 ODIs they have played. They enter the tournament on the back of a six-match losing streak.

But one cannot overlook the fact that they were not able to field a full strength team in any of these games due to multiple reasons.

Clubbed alongside an off-colour England, injury-plagued Australia and Afghanistan, South Africa have a good chance of advancing to the knockout stage. But the Afghans could prove to be the proverbial banana peel.

The war-torn nation has emerged as strong contenders to make the semifinals.

Their impressive performances in recent ICC events include dominant wins over England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka in the 2023 ODI World Cup and reaching the semifinals of the T20 World Cup last year.

They have proved more than once that they are no longer underdogs but a force to be reckoned with.

The Adghans have won four of their five bilateral series since the ODI World Cup, including one against South Africa in the UAE.

Their biggest strength expectedly remains their spin attack comprising the redoubtable Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi and left-armers Noor Ahmad and Nangeyalia Kharote.

They will play all three group matches in Pakistan where spin will be a decisive factor.

Pacer Azmatullah Omarzai has been a key figure in Afghanistan’s ODI success, with his ability to swing the new ball providing them the powerplay edge.

Fazalhaq Farooqi will be another crucial weapon with ability to provide early breakthroughs and effective variations at the death.

In the batting department, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran will once again be expected to provide a solid start.

Their weakness, however, lies in their middle order, which has often struggled to maintain momentum. This inconsistency has been a concern, and addressing it will be crucial for their success in the tournament.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen, Corbin Bosch.

Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Ikram Alikhil, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Farid Malik, Naveed Zadran.

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Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri Series 3rd ODI, Live Score Updates

admin — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 07:49:48 +0000

Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri Series 3rd ODI, Live Updates© AFP

Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri Series 3rd ODI, Live Updates: Pakistan will be taking on South Africa in the 3rd ODI match of the ongoing Tri-Nation series in Karachi on Wednesday. The hosts faced a shocking 78-run defeat in their opening game against New Zealand. They will now be putting their best foot forward and eye a strong comeback. On the other hand, South Africa also lost against the Kiwis by six wickets. Both the teams are now fighting for a victory, in order to play the series finale against New Zealand on Friday. (Live Scorecard)

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Pakistan vs South Africa Live Streaming Tri Series 3rd ODI Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch

admin — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 06:59:18 +0000

Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri Series 3rd ODI, Live Streaming: After making a losing start, hosts Pakistan are all set to face South Africa in the third ODI of the ongoing tri-series in Karachi on Wednesday. Pakistan will be coming to this match after facing a big 78-run defeat against New Zealand. Their new opponents South Africa also had a similar fate as they also lost against the Kiwis by six wickets. With two wins, New Zealand have entered the final and will be facing the winner of today’s match in the summit clash on Friday.

Earlier on Monday, star cricketer Kane Williamson hit a brilliant century to take New Zealand into the tri-series final with a thumping six-wicket against South Africa. He also overshadowed South African opener Matthew Breetzke‘s record score on debut. Breetzke scored 150 — the highest score by any batter in his first one-day international.

When will the Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri-Nation Series 3rd ODI match be played?

The Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri-Nation Series 3rd ODI match will be played on Wednesday, February 12.

Where will the Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri-Nation Series 3rd ODI match be played?

The Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri-Nation Series 3rd ODI match will be played at the National Stadium in Karachi.

What time will the Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri-Nation Series 3rd ODI match start?

The Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri-Nation Series 3rd ODI match will start at 2:30 PM (2 PM) toss.

Which TV channels will telecast the Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri-Nation Series 3rd ODI match?

The Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri-Nation Series 3rd ODI match will be telecast on the Sony Sports Network.

Where to follow the live streaming of the Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri-Nation Series 3rd ODI match?

The Pakistan vs South Africa, Tri-Nation Series 3rd ODI match will be streamed live on FanCode app and website.

(All the details are as per the information provided by the broadcaster)

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South Africa Announce Squad For Champions Trophy, Include Veteran Pacers

admin — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 08:19:54 +0000

Team South Africa in action© AFP

South Africa on Monday included Lungi Ngidi and Anrich Nortje in the Temba Bavuma-led squad for next month’s Champions Trophy after the pacers recovered sufficiently from their respective injuries. Nortje sustained an injury on his big toe last month which ruled him out of the series against Pakistan while a groin strain in November forced Ngidi to miss the series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. South Africa, the semifinalists of the 2023 ODI World Cup, are placed in group B of the Champions Trophy. They will start their campaign against Afghanistan in Karachi on February 21 before meeting Australia in Rawalpindi on February 25 and their final group game is against England on March 1.

However, frontline pacer Gerald Coetzee was not picked because of the groin injury that he suffered during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Durban last year.

Subsequently, he missed the second Test at Gqerberha and the entire home rubber against Pakistan.

Pacer Nandre Burger, who suffered a a lumbar stress reaction, ahead of the ODI series against Ireland in early October too was not considered for selection.

However, the Proteas trusted the improving fitness of all-rounder Wiaan Mulder, who broke his middle finger in the series against Sri Lanka, but he played in the second Test against Pakistan after the physios gave the green signal. Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi are the specialist spinners, who will be assisted by Aiden Markram’s part-time off-spin.

South Africa squad: Temba Bavuma (captain), Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen.

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South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test Day 4, Highlights: South Africa Seal Top Spot In WTC Table With 10-Wicket Victory

admin — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 15:51:47 +0000

South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test Day 4, Highlights© AFP

South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test Day 4, Highlights: Despite a stunning century by Pakistan captain Shan Masood and a valiant batting effort by Pakistan to overturn the follow-on deficit, South Africa romped to a 10-wicket victory and a convincing 2-0 series win at home. Pakistan batted for majority of Day 4, with Masood making 145, Salman Agha 48 and Mohammad Rizwan 41. However, the second-innings total of 478 was not enough due to South Africa’s huge lead early on, and a final target of 58 was easily chased down by the Proteas. David Bedingham opened the batting, scoring 44 off 30 balls to help them reach the target in just 7.1 overs. (Scorecard)

The win ensures that South Africa will top the World Test Championship (WTC) table for the 2023-25 cycle. Their next game will be the final, against Australia at Lord’s in June.

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South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test Day 4, Live Score Updates

admin — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 09:47:34 +0000

South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test Day 4, Live Updates: Pakistan will be resuming the Day 4 of the ongoing second Test against South Africa from 213/1, trailing by 208 runs. Currently, Shan Masood (102*) and Khurram Shahzad (8*) standing unbeaten at the crease. Earlier on Day 3, Shan Masood and Babar Azam shared a record opening partnership as Pakistan fought back after conceding a 421-run first innings deficit. Babar, who has not scored an international century since August 2023, fell short again when he was caught in the gully off Marco Jansen 14 minutes before the close of play. (Live Scorecard)

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South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test Day 1, Live Score Updates: South Africa Skipper Temba Bavuma Wins Toss, Opts To Bat vs Pakistan

admin — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 07:54:46 +0000

South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test Day 1, Live Updates: After qualifying for the World Test Championship final, South Africa will again take on Pakistan in the second Test in Cape Town. The Proteas registered a two-wicket over Pakistan in the first Test and gained an unassailable 1-0 lead in the two-match match series. The hosts are now playing for a clean sweep. Earlier on Sunday, chasing a tricky target of 148 at SuperSport Park in Centurion, the Proteas were 99 for 8 at one stage. Kagiso Rabada (31) and Marco Jansen (16) shared an unbeaten stand of 51 runs to take the hosts home. (Live Scorecard)

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South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test Live Streaming And Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch

admin — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 05:58:03 +0000

South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test Live Streaming: South Africa are all set to host Pakistan in the second Test of the two-match series on Friday in Cape Town. The Proteas have already gained an unassailable lead in the series with a two-wicket win in the first match. With that win, South Africa also secured the World Test Championship final berth. Earlier in the first match, Kagiso Rabada turned batting hero as he and Marco Jansen took South Africa to a dramatic two-wicket win over Pakistan on the fourth day.

Needing 148 to win, South Africa crashed to 99 for eight against superb bowling by Mohammad Abbas. The 34-year-old Abbas took a career-best six for 54. But Rabada, so often a match-winner as a bowler, went on the attack as a batsman, hitting an unbeaten 31 off 26 balls, while Jansen provided solid support in making 16 not out.

When will the South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test match take place?

The South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test match will take place on Friday, January 3 (IST).

Where will the South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test match take place?

The South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test match will take place at the Newlands, Cape Town.

What time will the South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test match start?

The South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test match will start at 2:00 PM IST. The toss will take place at 1:30 PM.

Which TV channels will show the live telecast of the South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test match in India?

The South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test match will be telecast on the Sports18 network in India.

Where to follow the live streaming of the South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test match?

The South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test match will be live streamed on the JioCinema app and website in India.

(All details are as per information shared by the broadcaster)

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South Africa vs Pakistan 1st Test Day 4 Live Score Updates: Pakistan Close In On Win As Mohammad Abbas Rattles South Africa In Chase

admin — Sun, 29 Dec 2024 08:34:57 +0000

South Africa vs Pakistan 1st Test Day 4, Live Updates: South Africa resume the fourth day of the ongoing first Test against Pakistan from 27/3 in Centurion. Currently, Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram are standing unbeaten at the crease as the Proteas need 121 runs more to win the match. Earlier, Pacers Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shehzad raised hopes of a rare Test win for Pakistan. South Africa were set a target of 148 runs to win after bowling Pakistan out for 237 in their second innings. Left-arm fast bowler Marco Jansen took six wickets for 52 runs, while Saud Shakeel made 84 for Pakistan. (Live Scorecard)

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