India vs South Africa series: 5 talking points
India might have lost the series against South Africa 2-1 but walked away with pride after their breath-taking performance in the third Test at the Wanderers. India have not only retained their number one rank in Test cricket but also remain unbeaten at the Wanderers. Here are the five talking points from the India vs South Africa Test series.
This Indian team is capable of winning in any conditions
India's victory in 3rd test was remarkable, considering pitch's condition. India showed a lot of courage and determination to win. This is India's first series loss since Kohli took over as India's captain. Even though India lost their first series 2-1, this team performed a lot better than their previous ones, on overseas tours. The recent performances indicate that this team can win anywhere.
India are moving in the right direction under Kohli
Kohli's aggressive approach is working for India. Not only did India pick up 60 wickets in this series, India have managed to keep their unbeaten record intact at the Wanderers. Kohli, now, has second most Test victories as India's captain. Former India captain, Dhoni had 27 wins in 60 matches, Kohli has 21 wins in 35 matches, Ganguly had 21 wins in 49 matches.
Kohli can't ignore Rahane and Bhuvi
Despite being the best bowler in the 1st Test, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was dropped for the second test. He returned for the third Test and took home the 'Man of the Match' for his performances with the bat and the ball. Rahane is still India's best overseas batsman after Kohli and his return to the squad has stabilized the playing XI.
This win belongs to the bowlers
Over the past few years, batsmen have performed exceptionally well and won India games, while India's bowling attack was always criticised. However, in South Africa, where the batsmen failed, the bowlers came out all guns blazing. Not only did they pick up all 60 wickets in the series, they contributed crucial runs with the bat as well.
The controversial pitch at the Wanderers
Undoubtedly, the biggest talking point of the series has been the pitch at the Wanderers. Several experts deemed this pitch dangerous and unfit to play international cricket, but the game eventually continued and provided an exciting finish. Everything rests in the hands of the match referee and if they didn't call off the match, there should be no more discussion around the pitch.
