IND vs SA: South Africa sharpens spin game during attacking nets session in Kolkata ahead of first Test
Fresh from its morale-boosting, series-saving win over Pakistan in Rawalpindi, visiting South Africa on Tuesday trained with a clear intent—to attack spin and unsettle the rhythm of the bowlers, ahead of the opening Test against India, starting in Kolkata Friday.
The reigning World Test champion began its new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle by drawing the two-match series against Pakistan 1-1, pulling off an incredible eight-wicket win in the second Test.
Tottering at 235 for eight in reply to Pakistan’s 333, South Africa’s lower order, led by Kagiso Rabada’s career-best 71 and Keshav Maharaj’s 30, helped secure a crucial lead before Simon Harmer (6/50) and Maharaj (2/34) spun Pakistan out for 138.
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With a fit-again skipper, Temba Bavuma, returning to lead the side for the first time since guiding South Africa to its maiden WTC title in June, the visiting side looked charged up in its first session attended by its full squad.
The intent was evident as the Proteas launched into an attacking net session that revolved around countering spin.
Bavuma took throwdowns from a short distance, a drill designed to test his judgment and reflexes since he’s coming back from an injury.
Aiden Markram, who struggled to convert starts against Pakistan while leading the side in the absence of Bavuma, batted with purpose alongside opening partner Ryan Rickelton, with both openers focusing on attacking the spinners.
To adapt to subcontinental conditions that deteriorate from day three, the batters practised attacking from the outset.
With Bavuma’s return, a reshuffle in the batting order is imminent, which may see Dewald Brevis, who managed just 46 runs in the two Pakistan Tests, make way.
Tristan Stubbs, another batter under scrutiny after a lean run, had extended sessions across three nets, mostly facing off-spinners and left-arm orthodox bowlers.
Yet to cement his position, having batted between No. 3 and 5, Stubbs is competing with Tony de Zorzi and Wiaan Mulder for a middle-order slot.
South Africa was whitewashed 0-3 on its previous tour of India in 2019.
Overall, India and South Africa have met in 17 Test series since the Proteas’ readmission in 1992, with contests often defined by home dominance.
South Africa leads with eight series wins, India has won five, while four have been drawn.
Published on Nov 11, 2025
