India vs South Africa 2019-20: Key takeaways from Test series
India put in a commendable shift to inflict a 3-0 whitewash in the just-concluded Test series against visitors South Africa. With this performance, the Men in Blue have also proved why they are the number one Test side as they remain unbeatable at home. Meanwhile, we take a look at some of the key takeaways from this one-sided Test series.
Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal cement their spots as Test openers
Talking about the Indian batting line-up, both openers, Mayank Agarwal and Rohit Sharma, grabbed headlines, courtesy of their flawless batting. Not only they finished as the highest run-scorers in the series, but their ability to bat long and play fearlessly made their gameplay impressive. Inevitably, we believe both these openers have cemented their spots in the XI.
Cheteshwar Pujara's form a matter of concern
Surprisingly, Cheteshwar Pujara has not enjoyed a good series. In four innings, he managed to score 145 runs at an average of 36.25, with his best score being 81, including twin half-centuries. He also failed during the Windies tour, where he managed to score just 60 in four innings. Pujara would look to get back to form before India start their overseas tours.
India seem unbeatable at home with record series wins
India ushered a new era in Test cricket as they created history by scripting 11 consecutive Test series wins at home. Notably, eight wins have come under Virat Kohli, who has been enjoying an amazing stint as captain. Furthermore, with the kind of talent India possess now, it seems highly unlikely that they would be beaten at home anytime soon.
India's bowling attack too strong, even without Jasprit Bumrah
More than the batsmen, it is the bowling line-up which has most impressed in this series. While the spinners naturally dominated, owing to the nature of Indian tracks, the pacers too had a good time. Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav just tore apart the South African batting order. Notably, it all happened without India's number one pacer Jasprit Bumrah.
Ravindra Jadeja: India's go to man in Tests
One of the notable top performers in this series was Ravindra Jadeja, who displayed his true all-round skills. Besides hitting half-centuries, he proved to be extremely effective with the ball, as his 13-wicket haul in the series played a huge role in earning India the win and the whitewash they inflicted. He too has likely cemented his spot in the Test side.
Proteas going through transition face post Dale Steyn, Hashim Amla
As far as the Proteas are concerned, while their under-performance has certainly raised quite a few eyebrows, it is to be noted that the side is going through a transition. Following the retirement of their prime pacer Dale Steyn, along with reliable batsman Hashim Amla, they have suffered a setback in both departments. They would need some time before they become a force again.
