Graeme Smith and Morne Morkel (Source: AFP)
The much-anticipated return of Test cricket to Eden Gardens kicks off this Friday as India host the two-match series against 2025 World Test Championship winners South Africa. While excitement is all time for the series, former South African captain Graeme Smith brought a humorous twist ahead of the first match.
Smith calls Morkel 'Enemy' ahead of IND vs SA Test
Smith playfully took a jab at his old teammate, Morne Morkel, who is now part of India’s coaching staff under Gautam Gambhir. "Morne Morkel is the enemy now," Smith said. It is important to note that Morkel now serves as India’s bowling coach, adding an interesting layer to the India-South Africa clash.
He has also remained optimistic about his team’s chances in Indian conditions. Graeme Smith has played 117 matches for South Africa in the longest format, making 9265 runs at an average of 48.25. He has played 197 matches in ODI and made 6989 runs at a strike-rate of 80.81.
Eden Gardens is not a bad place for starting the series. The two spin options that we have (Maharaj and Muthuswamy) are really good. Taking 20 wickets in a Test match is the most important thing. I have confidence in the side," Smith stated on Wednesday. He was speaking at an SA20 India Day event in Mumbai.
Joining Smith at the SA20 India Day event in Mumbai, former captain Faf du Plessis emphasized the importance of starting the series on a strong note.
“When you start the series well, the rest becomes easier. Expectations are always high. It’s unfortunate that we have only two Tests,” he added.
The first Test is set to take place at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, from November 14 to 18, while the second and final Test will be held in Guwahati from November 22 to 26. After the Test series, India will host South Africa in a three-match ODI series, followed by a five-match T20I series.
