Hashim Amla backs South Africa’s preparation ahead of India Test opener, praises Shubman Gill’s leadership
Mumbai, Nov 12 – Former South Africa great Hashim Amla is full of confidence about his team’s chances in the two‑match Test series against India that starts on Friday in Kolkata.
Amla, a 41‑year‑old legend who has scored more than 9,000 Test runs, believes Temba Bavuma’s squad are coming into the series well‑prepared. He praised the side’s recent matches in Pakistan as a key part of their build‑up. “Playing in sub‑continental conditions against decent spinners and seamer packs was the best prep we could have had,” he said. “The South African think‑tank kept the players in Test mode, and that will pay off in India.”
He highlighted that some South African players had fresh legs because they weren’t involved in one‑day games. “Giving them rest can help them keep their Test form sharp, especially when the conditions change,” Amla added.
The first Test will be hosted at Eden Gardens, a historic ground that has seen many great matches. Amla noted both teams have balanced line‑ups. “Both sides have good seamers and spinners. The batting will be the real decider,” he said. He also pointed out that South Africa’s newer players are making their first trip to India, a fact he believes could give them a learning edge.
Amla took a moment to praise India captain Shubman Gill, who stepped up after veterans like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retired. “Gill has done an amazing job leading the side and still scoring big runs,” Amla said. “Being a captain and opening a Test team is a tough role. It takes real character.”
India enter the series on a high note, having swept the West Indies 2‑0. Meanwhile, South Africa, the reigning World Test Championship winners, finished their Pakistan series in a 1‑1 draw. Amla reflected on that championship win, calling it a “lovely moment” that showed the squad’s resilience and character.
He also flagged the SA20 league as a vital part of South Africa’s cricket future. “SA20 will keep the country’s international reputation strong and inject fresh talent into the game,” he said.
When Amla reminisced about past tours of India, he noted the passion of Indian fans. “I know how much people love cricket here,” he said. “The players will be touched by the atmosphere, and that excitement can help push them to success.”
The series is set to test both teams’ skill and temperament in a sub‑continental hot spot. Fans around the world will be watching closely as South Africa and India battle it out on the field.
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