5 reasons we can't wait for the India-South Africa series
Earlier this week, it was announced that all series between India and South Africa would henceforth be called the Mahatma Gandhi – Nelson Mandela series. The trophy would be called ‘the Freedom Trophy’, and the series would strengthen ties between the two countries by upholding the ideals of both the great men.But if cricket fans are supposed to expect a peaceful and non-eventful series, they could hardly be more mistaken.India and South Africa are two of cricket’s heavyweights. India are champions at home; their last home ODI series loss came in 2013 and their last Test series loss even earlier, in 2012. India hasn’t lost more than two ODIs in a home series since 2009, and they haven’t lost more than two Tests in a home series since 1984.On the other hand is South Africa, the No. 1 Test team in the world. Their record in their last 20 Test series is 11 Won, 2 Lost and 7 Drawn. It’s needless to say that no other team has a better record. They have two players in the Top 10 ICC rankings in both the batting and bowling departments. They are cricket’s juggernauts.Both teams have returned to the subcontinent after a while, and they have had diverse experiences. While Virat Kohli led a young team to victory in Sri Lanka, the experienced South African squad was defeated by the Bangladesh team.As India and South Africa gear up to meet in a high-octane series, here are five reasons the fans can’t wait for it to start:
#1 ICC rankings
The ICC rankings are something that’s on everyone’s mind, even if we all act like it’s no big deal. India’s horror Test run that started from 2011 was finally broken last month with a 2-1 series victory over Sri Lanka, but it still didn’t help the team rise from 5th place in the ICC Test rankings – their all-time lowest.
On the other hand, South Africa is sitting pretty on top of the table with a huge lead over second-placed Australia. With only six points separating India and Australia, Kohil’s men will hope for another inspired performance to take them to second place, which they last achieved in 2011.
South Africa, however, are aiming to further extend their lead over the other teams in the running. Currently, they stand at 125 points, a whopping 19 points ahead of Australia. The Proteas will look to maintain the top spot and receive the ICC Test Championship Mace, the trophy for the No. 1 ranked Test team every year.
With Australia being defeated by England, and South Africa now facing a relatively inexperienced Indian squad, it is their best chance to reinforce their stranglehold on the rankings table.
Similarly, India and South Africa stand at No. 2 and 3 respectively in the ICC ODI rankings, with only 5 points separating them. Both teams will look to improve their ratings and try to catch up with No. 1 ranked Australia, who are in top form.
As the 72-day tour pans out, it will be no surprise if we see a completely different ranking table after two of the strongest teams duel it out in the toughest conditions possible.