the excitement is palpable India And South Africa Get ready to renew your red ball rivalry in the upcoming two-match Test series starting at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata from November 14. The series promises to be an interesting battle led by two evenly matched teams – India, Shubman Gilland under proteas Temba Bavumalead a. Both teams will look to improve their squads ahead of the ICC World Test Championship cycle.
India gets the biggest encouragement in the form of Rishabh PantReturning to the Test team after a long layoff due to injury. For South Africa, the return of Bavuma after featuring in the unofficial Test against India A will strengthen their batting unit. This rivalry, rich in history, has always produced memorable encounters and it is expected that the 2025 series will be no different.
Hashim Amla reveals his top three Test batsmen of all time
Ahead of the much-awaited series, the South African giants Hashim Amla shared his thoughts on the greatest Test batsmen of all time – but his list sparked a lot of debate among fans. Former Proteas icon names his top three Test batsmen, leaving out some modern icons including India Virat Kohli,
Amla’s first choice steve smithHe has been a dominant force in Test cricket, scoring over 10,000 runs at an average of 56, including 36 centuries. His unconventional technique and extraordinary hand-eye coordination have made him one of the most consistent performers in the modern era.
“To be honest, I really like Smith’s batting in Tests. In my opinion, Smith is the best Test player in the world.” Amla said as quoted by NDTV.
Amla comes second in this list Joe RootFormer England captain who has given a new definition to batting in challenging conditions. With over 13,500 Test runs and 39 centuries, Root’s ability to play spin and pace with equal authority has earned him global praise.
After this, I would choose Joe Root at number two, he is again a great Test batsman. added staff,
Amla was chosen at number three kane williamsonThe cornerstone of New Zealand’s batting lineup. The right-handed batsman, known for his calm nature and beautiful stroke play, has scored over 9,000 Test runs with 33 centuries, leading his team to several historic victories, including the inaugural World Test Championship title in 2021.
“I would definitely put Kane Williamson at number three,” Amla further said.
Also read: Hashim Amla reveals his all-time ODI XI, no Rohit Sharma; 3 Indians got the cut
Despite great record, Amla did not leave Virat Kohli
Amla’s list raised questions as it did not include the name of Kohli, one of the most successful Test batsmen of the modern generation. Known for his intensity, fitness and remarkable consistency, Kohli has been India’s run machine across all formats. In his illustrious Test career, Kohli scored 9,230 runs in 123 matches at an impressive average of 46.85, which included 30 centuries and 31 fifties.
Kohli’s reign as captain was equally historic – he led India to 40 Test wins, the most by any Indian captain, and he played a key role in turning India into a major power both domestically and overseas. His double centuries against South Africa, England and Sri Lanka stand as a testament to his class and mental toughness.
However, Amla’s ouster of Kohli can be seen through the prism of recent developments, as the Indian legend retired from Test cricket earlier this year, ending an illustrious chapter that spanned over a decade.
Also read: Karan Johar told why he did not invite Virat Kohli to ‘Koffee with Karan’
