NEW DELHI: India have been unsuccessful in conquering the South African stronghold on their home turf in the previous eight series, managing to secure victories in only four out of the 23 Test matches contested between the two teams.
But former India head coach Ravi Shastri said the current series presents India with the best chance to win the first ever Test series in South Africa.And the reason is not slightly inexperienced Proteas side but not having Vernon Philander in the team.”This is India’s best chance, you know why? Because this bloke is not playing,” Shastri gestured towards Philander, who stood alongside the former India head coach during the pre-match show for Star Sports.
“We would have beaten South Africa at least twice when I came here but for this fellow. We’ve seen Rabada‘s record, Ngidi’s record. Take a look at his record as well against India. He always gets the important wickets when we don’t want one to fall,” Shastri said.
Philander boasts an impressive track record against India on home soil, participating in five Tests during the touring Indian sides in 2013 and 2018 – two in 2013 and three in 2018.
In these five Tests, the right-arm medium pacer, known for his effectiveness with the new ball, secured a total of 25 wickets with an average of 18.
Philander announced his retirement in 2019. Over the course of his 64 Tests, he claimed a remarkable 224 wickets, maintaining an outstanding average of 22.32.