The stage is set for another entertaining chapter India-South Africa The rivalry is heating up as both the sides prepare to meet in the first Test starting on November 14 at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. With the series featuring a mix of experienced stars and exciting fresh talent, fans are eagerly anticipating a high-quality contest between the two highly competitive red-ball units. As anticipation grows, former India batsman Subramaniam Badrinath have identified three key players who they believe can be the decisive X-factor in this highly anticipated series.
Subramaniam Badrinath picks 3 x points in red ball battle
sharing my insights star sports tamilBadrinath highlighted three individuals – one from South Africa and two from India – who can tilt the series with their impressive performances.
Dewald Brevis – a Proteas wildcard
From the visiting camp, Badrinath selected the talented 22-year-old dewald brevisHe was described as a player with the ability to surprise India in unfamiliar conditions. Although Brevis only has four Tests under his belt since making his debut in Zimbabwe earlier this year, his natural stroke-making ability and fearless mentality make him a dangerous prospect.
Despite an opening average of 23 after six Test innings, Brevis’s reputation as a high-impact batsman precedes him. Badrinath believes that if this young player finds his rhythm in Kolkata then he can play a decisive role for the Proteas team.
Sai Sudarshan – The Rising Hope of India
Badrinath’s name was taken from India’s side Sai Sudarshan As one of the major X-factors. The 24-year-old left-hander, who made his Test debut during India’s recent tour of England, has shown glimpses of promise by scoring 273 runs at an average of 30.33 in five matches.
With stiff competition for middle-order spots, the South Africa series could be an important opportunity for Sudarshan to cement his place in the setup. Badrinath stressed that the youngster’s temperament and ability to hold his own against a quality pace attack makes him a batsman to keep an eye on.
Also read: India vs South Africa 2025: Eden Gardens pitch report, Kolkata weather forecast for 1st Test
Kuldeep Yadav – India’s proven match-winner
The last selection was of Badrinath -Kuldeep YadavOne of India’s most dangerous red-ball performers on home soil. The left-arm wrist spinner has an exceptional record in India, having taken 50 wickets in 11 home Test matches at an average of 22.46, including three five-wicket hauls.
His variations, accuracy and ability to exploit turning tracks make him a constant threat. With the spinners expected to get help in the first Test, Kuldeep is set to become a key weapon in India’s attack.
Fans are buzzing about an exciting series face-off between India and South Africa
As both the teams are assembled with a mix of youth and experience, the excitement among the fans is increasing. will lead India Shubman Gillsupported by people like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul And Kuldeep. South Africa, captained by Temba BavumaBring in familiar match-winners like Aiden Markram, Kagiso Rabada And Keshav Maharaj,
Also read: IND vs SA: Cheteshwar Pujara chooses Dhruv Jurel’s batting position for first Test
