Cheteshwar Pujara has said that India will be drawing confidence from their success in the last two years in Australia and England as they prepare to face South Africa in a three-Test series away from home. The series starts on December 26 and Pujara said that the relaxed bio-bubble that the team is training in has helped in keeping them mentally fit.
“I feel that we have the best support staff and most of the players have played in South Africa in the past. So it is an experienced side and we know what is expected out of us. When it comes to preparation, all of us are ready,” he said.
India last visited South Africa in 2017/18, in which they lost the three-Test series 2-1. However, since then, India have recorded consecutive Test series victories in Australia and lead England 2-1 in an incomplete series.
“Having done well in England and Australia makes a big difference in this squad’s confidence and self-belief… that we can win overseas and in any conditions. With our bowling and batting lineups I am very confident we have the capacity to win a series in South Africa,” said Pujara.
“With experience you learn so many things and you just start believing in your preparation. You don’t need to change too much. Because of my tours in South Africa and Australia, I know the conditions a little better than I did in the past. So with that experience, I know what kind of shots I need to avoid or play. You are a little clearer with your mindset and preparation.”
South Africa, meanwhile, have lost a number of stalwarts like Faf du Plessis, Hashim Amla, AB de Villiers, Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel and Vernon Philander to retirement since the last time they hosted India. Fast bowler Anrich Nortje was also ruled out of the series with an injury but Pujara said that the Proteas still possess one of the best bowling line ups in the world.
“Most of the teams play well in their home conditions and it is the same with South Africa. They have one of the best bowling lineups and facing them has always been challenging. When I first came here in 2011, Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel were both at their peak. I have visited again in 2013 and 2017 so I understand what is expected.
“When you are a visiting team you know there is pace and bounce here and lateral movement. To face the fast bowlers is always a big challenge when we go out of India. But this team has learnt that and I feel this is a much more balanced batting lineup. With our preparation I am confident that we will put up a good show,” he said.
