Overview
- On the eve of the first Test in Kolkata, Temba Bavuma said Kane Williamson told him to make sure he wins the toss and joked he has been practising coin flips.
- The two-Test series begins at Eden Gardens with final XIs yet to be confirmed pending a close inspection of the pitch.
- Reports highlight India’s spin threats in Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel, with Shubman Gill noting home Tests are often decided by spinners.
- South Africa counter with Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj and Senuran Muthuswamy, as Bavuma says preparation has been strong but key individuals must step up.
- Coverage repeatedly references New Zealand’s 3-0 win in India in 2024, with Williamson part of the leadership group, as a context shaping tactical thinking for this series.