IND vs SA | Zaheer Khan says pacers will pose a threat in the series

Former Indian pace bowler Zaheer Khan shared his views on the upcoming five-match T20I series between India and South Africa. He believes that Kagiso Rabada will be the player to watch out for from the South African team in the series, starting June 9.

However, the right-arm pacer was the leading wicket-taker among pacers in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. He picked up 23 wickets in 13 matches for the Punjab Kings. Saying that he would be a key player for the visitors against the Indian batting unit, Zaheer Khan said on Cricbuzz that his side would expect a lot from him.

"We've seen how Rabada has gone on about his business along with Quinton de Kock as well. Every time you talk about the team doing well here, they say bowlers win you games."

He added, "So, South Africa will be expecting a lot from Rabada, continuing with his wicket-taking form. We know the Indian team is going to be strong with their batting lineup so, South Africa will be hoping that their bowling is equal to the challenge."

The speedster has claimed four wickets against India in as many T20I matches at an economy of 7.53 runs per over. However, he will lead a pace bowling unit, including other quality pacers like Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius and Marco Jansen.

On the other hand, despite their key players playing throughout the IPL, Cricket South Africa (CSA) has named a strong squad for the five-match series. Meanwhile, Indian team management decided to give rest to a few of their senior players after a hectic two-month IPL campaign. And, the home team won't have the service of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Shami.

Zaheer Khan named Team India as favourites to clinch the series despite not having the aforesaid players. However, India will take on South Africa in the first of the five T20Is on June 9 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.

"When you look at these two teams, on paper you would feel that this would be an evenly fought series, there will be some exciting cricket, some close games, that's what I am looking forward to from this series. As far as prediction is concerned, India head into the series as favourites, there is no doubt about it. The home advantage will be with them," Zaheer Khan concluded.