Proteas Bolster Bowling Attack for Series Decider
In a significant development ahead of the crucial second Test against India, South Africa has called up experienced fast bowler Lungi Ngidi to their national squad. The decision comes as a direct replacement for injured pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada, who continues to recover from a rib injury that kept him out of the first Test at Eden Gardens.
Ngidi's Return and Rabada's Absence
The 29-year-old Ngidi last featured in Test cricket during the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord's in June 2025. Surprisingly omitted from the original touring party to India, this recall marks his return to the red-ball setup after also missing South Africa's recent tour of Pakistan. With 20 Test matches under his belt, Ngidi brings valuable experience to the Proteas bowling attack.
Rabada's absence proved costly for South Africa in the first Test, though the visitors managed to secure a remarkable victory. The pace bowling duties were shared between Marco Jansen, who led the attack, along with Corbin Bosch and Wiaan Mulder during the Kolkata encounter.
Historic Context and Series Scenario
South Africa's 30-run victory in the first Test marked their first Test win on Indian soil in 15 years, giving them a precious 1-0 lead in the two-match series. The defending World Test Championship champions defended a modest target of 123 runs, bowling out India for just 93 on a dramatic third day in Kolkata.
This defeat placed India's batting collapse in historical context, as the target of 124 became the second-lowest total the Indian team has failed to chase down in their Test history. The record remains India's unsuccessful pursuit of 120 runs against West Indies in Bridgetown back in 1997.
The series now moves to the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, where the second and final Test begins on November 22. India will be desperate to level the series, while South Africa eyes what would be a historic series victory on Indian territory.
