South Africa’s Spin Success in Pakistan Fuels Confidence for India Tour

Summary:

South African skipper Aiden Markram believes the valuable lessons learned from their recent spin-dominated Test series in Pakistan will be instrumental as the team prepares for their upcoming tour of India. The Proteas concluded their two-match series against Pakistan with a commanding eight-wicket victory in Rawalpindi, leveling the series 1-1 and providing a significant boost for their World Test Championship title defense.

Markram, stepping in for the injured Temba Bavuma, lauded his team’s resilience and fightback after facing pressure in the first Test. He highlighted the collective effort, stating, “After the first Test we were put under pressure and the guys have put their hands up and excelled.” This spirit was evident in the second Test, where South Africa secured a crucial 71-run first-innings lead. Spin bowler Simon Harmer delivered a career-best performance, taking 6-50 to dismiss Pakistan for a mere 138 runs. The visitors then comfortably chased down the 68-run target on day four, losing only two wickets.

This victory instills considerable confidence in the squad as they prepare for the challenging Indian conditions. Markram expressed the team’s positive mindset: “We have taken a lot of confidence from this win and we are in a great space to be in as a team, but we are still a work in progress in these conditions as we now head to India.” The South Africa cricket team is scheduled to play the first of two Tests against India in Kolkata starting November 14.

A key factor in South Africa’s success was their formidable spin attack. Markram praised his “quality spinners,” including Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer, Senuran Muthusamy, and Prenelan Subrayen. This quartet collectively accounted for 35 of the 40 wickets taken in the series, showcasing their effectiveness on spin-friendly pitches.

Conversely, Pakistan’s skipper Shan Masood acknowledged his side’s batting struggles throughout the series, noting areas for improvement such as lower-order batting and finishing innings. Despite the loss, Masood defended Pakistan’s strategy of preparing spin tracks for home series, citing a favorable win record. The two teams are now set to compete in a three-match Twenty20 series in Rawalpindi, commencing on Tuesday.

Source: https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20251023-pakistan-spin-lessons-good-for-south-africa-says-markram