IND vs SA 2nd Test: India and South Africa will clash for the final time in this tour at Newlands, Cape Town, on January 3, with everything to play for. The Rohit Sharma-led side seeks a comeback after a crushing innings and 32 runs defeat in the series opener at Centurion last week.
The Indian skipper assessed that the pace and bounce at Newlands would resemble Centurion, but the heat in Cape Town would be a decisive factor.
"The pitch looks similar to what we had in Centurion. Maybe not as much grass on the Supersport Park track, but there's enough covering. However, the overhead conditions will matter as it is very hot compared to Centurion,” PTI quoted Rohit as saying.
“In 2021, I wasn't here (due to injury), but the guys who were here told me it was similar conditions. We know exactly what needs to be done. Based on how the pitch is, we've got to respond to that," Rohit commented.
India is expected to make two changes in the bowling lineup, with Avesh Khan likely to debut, replacing last-match debutant Prasidh Krishna. Additionally, Ravindra Jadeja is anticipated to replace Ravichandran Ashwin in the playing 11.
Rohit expressed his confidence in Prasidh's ability to handle the challenges of five-day cricket despite his lackluster debut in the opening Test against South Africa.
"We had a brief chat with the management about what we want from this game from the bowlers. We haven't exactly finalized our eleven. All our players are fit and available. We will sit down and decide," Rohit said.
‘He's (Prasidh) got good ability to succeed at this level and especially in this format. So it's just about showing faith and trust in everyone and getting the job done from them," Indian skipper added.
Rohit also commented on Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill's struggles against excess bounce. The Indian skipper said that the confidence gained from performing well in adverse situations would be crucial for the future of both batters.
"These three guys, including Yashasvi Jaiswal, haven't played a lot of cricket, but they have been around the team for a number of years. You have to find the positivity to take the game to the next level. When you score against a team like that, it gives you a lot of confidence to go ahead in your career," the skipper said.
India have never won a Test match in Cape Town, adding to the daunting task in the challenging conditions.
