The inaugural India vs. South Africa Test is scheduled to begin this Friday, marking the long-awaited return of Test cricket to Kolkata's famous Eden Gardens. It is widely anticipated that the Indian team, led by the youthful skipper Shubman Gill, will perform admirably at home against the reigning World Test Championship champions. Former South Africa captain Graeme Smith showed great faith in the team's two spinners, Keshav Maharaj and Senuran Muthuswamy, to perform well against India, despite the fact that the South African team has excellent pacers like Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen as well as all-rounder Corbin Bosch.

"Starting the series in Eden Gardens is not a bad idea. Maharaj and Muthuswamy, our two spin alternatives, are excellent. The most crucial thing in a Test match is to take 20 wickets. I'm confident in the side," Smith said on Wednesday. He was giving a speech at a SA20 India Day celebration in Mumbai. The T20 franchise league, which Smith is the League Commissioner for, is set to begin on December 26.

Smith gave a lighthearted reaction when asked about his old teammate Morne Morkel, who is currently the Indian bowling coach in the coaching setup overseen by Gautam Gambhir. "Morne Morkel is the enemy now," Smith retorted.

On a more somber note, Faf Du Plessis, who was also present, emphasized how important it is to get off to a good start in a short two-Test series like the forthcoming match.

"The remainder of the series becomes simpler when you get off to a good start. There are always big expectations. We have performed well over the past 12 to 14 months. We also performed well in Pakistan. Spinning conditions are a topic of much discussion. We only have two Tests, which is a shame," Du Plessis bemoaned.
"The drawback of the new test schedule is that. I firmly believe in at least three tests.
Smith agreed with Du Plessis about the significance of establishing early momentum.

It's all about confidence in sports. South Africa would come confidently. But losing a Test match also rapidly erodes confidence. Smith, who notably led South Africa to more than 50 wins as captain, stated, "It will be very important for them to get that momentum."
"It will be crucial to counter Bumrah. Later on, spinners would be used. However, you will be severely impacted if you are two or three down before the spinners enter the game. Taking on Bumrah will therefore be crucial. This also applies to India. It will be crucial to confront Kagiso Rabada.
The first Test between South Africa and India will take place in Kolkata, and the series' second game will begin on November 22 in Guwahati.