Jacques Kallis, former South African all-rounder, emphasized that Virat Kohli’s exceptional performance is crucial for India’s quest to secure their first Test series win in South Africa. Kallis expressed confidence in Kohli’s ability to share his knowledge of playing in South Africa with the team, foreseeing a impactful series for the Indian star batter against Temba Bavuma’s squad.
Speaking on Star Sports, Kallis stated, “I am sure of his success in South Africa. He is in good form and has played some remarkable Test innings against the Proteas.” Kallis believes Kohli, a seasoned player with a strong track record, will lead the batting charts and pass on valuable insights to the younger players about the conditions and expectations from the pitches.
“If India are to win their maiden series, Virat will have to perform with the bat,” Kallis added.
Highlighting the challenge posed by South Africa’s formidable bowling lineup, including Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, and Gerald Coetzee, Kallis acknowledged their capability to challenge any batting lineup on home soil.
Reflecting on Kohli’s past performances in South Africa, Kallis noted that Kohli played a Test series earlier in the country in 2013, amassing 719 runs in 7 Tests at an average of 51.36 with 2 centuries.
While Kohli’s best score of 153 in 2018 at Centurion showcased his prowess, India faced defeat in that particular game. The seasoned right-handed batter’s contribution with the bat is deemed pivotal for India’s chances of clinching their maiden Test series victory in South Africa.
