Ahead of the second Test against India at SuperSport Park Centurion, South African skipper Faf Du Plessis has issued a warning for his team saying that they can’t commit a mistake of taking the world No.1 Test team lightly. The Proteas are currently leading the series 1-0 after securing the Newlands Test by 72 runs.

"We expect a huge performance from them as they are a very strong team. We don't want to take a step back and rely on a 1-0 lead as if you do that they will pounce on you." Du Plessis quoted in the pre-match conference.

Talking about the pitch, the home captain hinted that the pace and bounce will certainly be there.

"I expect a good cricketing wicket with pace and bounce but it certainly looks browner than the previous one," said the Proteas skipper.

With Dale Steyn out for the remainder of the series, Du Plessis said he is still uncertain about the team composition. The drafted pacer Lungisani Ngidi might play as a fourth seamer while the all-rounder Chris Morris is another option. Considering the batting collapse in the second innings of first Test, South Africa could also opt for an additional batsman in Temba Bavuma.

"The team that we selected last week was what we thought was the best team, Dale Steyn is among the world's best bowler and he brings a lot to the table. With him missing, it will be a tough selection but it is a nice headache to have," Du Plessis asserted when asked about the team combinations.

The 33-year-old Proteas captain also praised his two strike bowlers – Kagiso Rabada and Vernon Philander, who played an instrumental role in restricting the visitors to 135 while defending 208 in the fourth innings.

"Rabada is a strong athlete and a strong bowler, he can bowl throughout the day, his best is yet to come as he is still learning."

"Vernon has worked on his fitness and has really improved as a bowler, he wanted the ball the whole time and never got tired, which was good to see," concluded Du Plessis.