Former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar believes South Africa will have the advantage of playing in the familiar conditions of the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. The Proteas will begin their Super 8 stage campaign against hosts India at Ahmedabad and then they will play against the West Indies at the same venue. Earlier in the group stage, South Africa played three matches against Afghanistan, New Zealand, and Canada at Ahmedabad.
The South African team is in a rich vein of form after winning all of their four matches in the Group stage and the players like Quinton de Kock, Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram, Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, and Anrich Nortje also have IPL experience.
Sanjay Bangar said on ESPN Cricinfo, “It is indeed a big advantage. Also, [they are] not travelling. If they’re settled at one particular place, then it gives more time for rest and rehab purposes as well. So South Africa having that long experience, it’s like they’re playing in a familiar territory now – just like what Sri Lanka are doing, playing in their own backyard, just like what India is doing.”
The former RCB head coach highlighted that South African players have the experience of playing in sub-continent conditions.
“The number of players that play in sub-continent conditions, I think they’ve got very good exposure of what to do at that particular venue. So clearly an advantage to South Africa.”
On the other hand, former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron concurred with Sanjay Bangar, stating South Africa will have the advantage of playing almost all their matches in Ahmedabad.
Aaron said, “South Africa, number one, they have a very good team, very balanced. If just Rabada switches it on at the right time, they will look even more dangerous. But them playing a couple of games in Ahmedabad gives them a slight edge. A few players have represented Gujarat Titans. So, it gives them that sense of familiarity.”
South Africa will take on India in their opening game of the Super 8 stage at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on Sunday.
