The tour of India has never been easy, and for South Africa, it feels like a trial by fire. The past two tours are testament enough—both in 2015 and 2019, the African team faltered against spin and couldn't adapt to the conditions. In 2015, their decade-long winning streak on foreign soil came to an agonizing end, and in 2019, they arrived in India without a permanent coach amid administrative turmoil, leading to disappointing outcomes. The current two-Test series begins with the first Test on November 14 in Kolkata.
But over six years, the landscape has shifted dramatically. Under the guidance of Shukri Conrad, the South African team has risen once more. Experience may be modest, but the team now brims with confidence and resilience. Since Conrad's appointment in January 2023, Africa hasn't lost a Test series, playing with vigor, save for New Zealand's tour in 2024, where main players were unavailable due to the SA20 league. This time, they believe this could be their golden chance to clinch a series victory in India, an achievement not seen since 2000.
This squad includes 8 players who have never played a Test match in India. With seasoned names like captain Temba Bavuma, opener Aiden Markram, and fast bowler Kagiso Rabada, many new faces are eager to make their mark on subcontinental soil.
Zubayr Hamza, Senuran Muthusamy, and Simon Harmer have previously been part of an Indian tour, while for the rest, it's an entirely new opportunity.
1. Ryan Rickelton – A Test of Patience
After a stellar performance for Mumbai Indians in the 2025 IPL, Ryan Rickelton now faces the ultimate examination with the red ball. 14 matches with three half-centuries and a strike rate of 150, but Test cricket presents different challenges. During last year's Bangladesh tour, he managed just 40 runs in two Tests. Yet, earlier this year in Pakistan, his steadfast innings of 71 showed his potential to stick it out.
2. Tony de Zorzi – Rise to the Occasion
De Zorzi seized his chance after Bavuma's injury this year and proved himself with a century in Lahore. It was his second Test hundred and the second in Asia. Interestingly, he hasn't played any match in India yet but his prowess against spin makes him a strong contender.
3. Dewald Brevis – The Wild Card Entry
Known as 'Baby AB,' Dewald Brevis has already made a name in India. Now, he seeks to validate it. After two average IPL seasons, with two half-centuries while playing for Chennai Super Kings, and back in Pakistan, he smacked a blistering 54 amid two ducks. The team sees him as a game-changer who can swing a session in their favor.
4. Tristan Stubbs – Battle for a Spot
Despite a moderate IPL stint with Delhi Capitals (14 matches, 300 runs), Stubbs is still getting opportunities. He scored fifties against Bangladesh and England, even hitting a Test century. The dilemma lies in where the team will slot him in—at 3, 4, or 5? He contends for a spot with De Zorzi and Wiaan Mulder.
5. Kyle Verreynne – The Spin Maestro
An expert against spin, this series is pivotal for Verreynne. As a wicketkeeper-batsman, he's set to debut in a Test match in India. His displays in the English county league and Bangladesh showed his adaptability. In the last cycle, he managed the most with three centuries.
6. Wiaan Mulder – The 'Utility' Player
From bowling to leadership, Mulder has donned every role. During the India A tour in 2019, he emerged as the top run-scorer for the team. Shining with a century in Bangladesh last year, he proved his capabilities. On this tour, his role hinges on finding team balance.
7. Marco Jansen – Time for Trial
Recovering from the confidence blow during the 2023 World Cup against India, Jansen has prepared himself anew. He was South Africa's top bowler in the IPL with his left-handed pace, aggressive approach, and big hits. Now the test is whether he can replicate this in the Test arena.
8. Corbin Bosch – The Rising Name
Corbin Bosch, a late-comer to international cricket, debuted in all formats last year and secured an IPL contract. With a fast pace over 140 km/h, a confident demeanor, and contributions with the bat, he's preferred over Lungi Ngidi. While he may not immediately take the field, his presence is a robust backup.
Outcome – Will They Fail or Flourish in India?
This youthful South African team is energized and passionate, but in India, success demands more than enthusiasm. It's achieved through restraint and skill. This tour isn't just a test of cricket; it's a turning point for careers. For these 8 newcomers and the future of South African cricket.
