Overview
- The two-Test series begins Friday at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
- Graeme Smith warns South Africa must handle Jasprit Bumrah up front, with India facing a similar challenge from Kagiso Rabada.
- Smith frames the tour as a major examination of Rabada’s leadership and tone-setting with the new ball in subcontinental conditions.
- India are expected to follow their home blueprint of heavy first-innings runs followed by sustained spin pressure as surfaces wear.
- South Africa bring Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer and recent subcontinental exposure, with Faf du Plessis stressing the need for a strong start.