There were plenty of expectations from the Virat Kohli led Indian Test team as they embarked on their tour to South Africa after winning 9 consecutive Test series. However, the current world No. 1 Test side couldn’t quite prove their mettle in the adverse Proteas conditions as they conceded an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match Test series.
After losing the first Test by 72 runs in Cape Town, it was said that Virat Kohli’s troops will put up an improved show in the second Test. Despite getting a subcontinent-like pitch SuperSport Park in Centurion, Indian batsmen couldn’t able to adjust their game as the tourists got bundled out for 307 and 151 in their two innings respectively and consequently conceded the all-important second Test by 135 runs.
After such a miserable show, the backlash from the fans and media was pretty much expected. Amidst all the criticism though, veteran India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has come out in support of the team and backed them to bounce back in the third Test, scheduled to start from January 24 at New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg.
"Of course, they can bounce back. Every game is a new opportunity. Whatever has happened, you cannot change that. But you can change what is in front of you," Harbhajan quoted as per IANS.
"I wish and hope they win the next Test match," he further added.
Bhajji is leading the Punjab team in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament he feels that his team is well prepared for the knockouts starting from Sunday (January 21).
"Our preparations are good. We are in a good rhythm. We know that competition will be better than previous encounters. We are looking forward to the knockouts," Harbhajan said.
Asked about the wicket at the Jadavpur University campus ground where Punjab will take on Karnataka, Harbhajan said: "The wicket has a lot of grass on it. I told the curator to make sure this grass should not be at an advantage for the team who wins the toss. Toss should not be the deciding factor.
"Both sides are playing away from home so no home advantage," he concluded.
(With IANS inputs)
