Hashim Amla explains how South Africa can upset India in the 2025 Test series

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The cricketing world is gearing up for an exciting showdown as India and South Africa prepare to lock horns in a two-match Test series starting November 14 at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. With both teams known for their rich history in red-ball cricket, the series promises gripping battles, decisive sessions, and potential twists that could shape the narrative of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. India, nearly unbeatable at home in the last decade, enter the series as favourites—yet the resilient Proteas have often shown they can spring surprises in the toughest conditions.

Former South African great Hashim Amla believes that despite South Africa’s relatively inexperienced squad, the team has a genuine opportunity to challenge Shubman Gill’s India. Speaking during the SA20 India Day interactions, Amla explained why the lack of subcontinental experience among Proteas players could unexpectedly work in their favour.

According to Amla, arriving in India without the burden of past failures may help the newcomers approach the series with a fearless mindset.

“The South African team has quite a few inexperienced guys who have come to India for the first time, and that might also be an advantage because you come to a new place where you haven’t played before,” Amla said.

He highlighted that South Africa’s previous tours to India have often been overshadowed by baggage—poor results, spin struggles, and overwhelming conditions. New players, however, arrive with no such emotional weight.

“You have a lot less baggage from previous tours, and you come with a fresh mind. That might work in South Africa’s favour,” he added.

Amla’s view suggests that unpredictability could be South Africa’s biggest strength. With India preparing heavily for their established stars, the Proteas’ young talent may break through by playing instinctively rather than overthinking conditions. Additionally, fresh players tend to adapt quickly, often eager to prove themselves and embrace challenges without hesitation.

He also implied that if South Africa can remain disciplined in the first Test—surviving India’s spin assault and capitalising on scoring opportunities—they could apply pressure on the home side, potentially triggering mistakes that experienced teams usually avoid.

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The upcoming series carries significant expectations, not just because of the historical rivalry, but also due to the trajectory both teams are on. India, led for the first time in a major home Test series by Gill, will look to maintain their dominance in home conditions. A powerful spin attack, dependable middle order, and familiarity with the conditions make them formidable opponents.

South Africa, on the other hand, are in a transitional phase, yet their blend of raw pace, athletic fielding, and hungry young batters brings a sense of unpredictability that could trouble India. Fans are particularly excited to see how their fast bowlers adjust to Indian pitches and whether the inexperienced batting unit can absorb pressure against world-class spinners.

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