It's only been two Tests since the series has started but South Africa might be itching to mop things up at Ranchi and head home in the first flight available. Thankfully, their batsmen seem to recognise this need and are duly performing their duty by spending as little time in the middle as possible.
However, Vernon Philander and Keshav Maharaj vehemently disagree to this quick departure plan from India. The two played out a whopping 461 balls much to South Africa's dismay at Pune even as their top-order tried to take some much-needed rest ahead of the third and final Test by closing off things quickly.
The two haven't escaped scot-free and South Africa have sent back Keshav Maharaj and brought in a lesser effective batsman who spins the ball in George Linde. This should serve as a warning to Philander too and before they head home, Philander will hope to please the management and score lesser runs, and importantly play lesser balls, like the very obliging top-order.
WATCH OUT FOR:
Virat Kohli - He has seven double hundreds to his name in Test cricket and at Ranchi, he will hope he can make that eight. Given the toothless attack South Africa have gracefully brought to the country, the Indian captain will be disappointed with himself if he can't get to that feat and probably climb over Steven Smith in the ICC rankings.
Aiden Markram - A wounded lion is often dangerous and if there's one with multiple stabs on him in the South African side, it's Aiden Markram. The young superstar had made hundreds against India A and the Board President's XI in the build-up to the series but met with the actual juggernaut, his wheels have failed to come off. Can he fight back to claim that throne which Faf du Plessis might well have to desert after this series?
Head to Sportsbet.io to make your selections and let the ball rolling.
Featured image courtesy: AFP / Punit Paranjpe
