Paul Adams backs Proteas’ spin trio assault on India
Paul Adams (pictured) highlights the Proteas’ spin trio of Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj, and Senuran Muthusamy as key players for their upcoming Test series against India, emphasising their experience and adaptability in spin-friendly conditions, alongside the positive batting approach demonstrated in Pakistan. Picture: Independent Media
Image: Independent Media
Seldom in South Africa’s Test cricket history could they boast about having three frontline spinners, but that’s exactly the case as the Proteas head into their Test series starting at Eden Gardens on Friday.
Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj, and Senuran Muthusamy all produced the goods in their drawn Test series with Pakistan last month, and will likely play similarly pivotal roles in the two-match series against their hosts.
Allrounder Muthusamy picked up 11 wickets in the series, with all of those strikes coming in the first Test. Harmer picked up 13 scalps over the two contests, while Maharaj took 12 wickets.
Former Proteas spinner Paul Adams fancied the chances of the three tweakers.
Proteas’ Spin Attack and Batsmen’s Strategy: Key to Success Against India
“The trio of Harmer, Muthusamy, and Maharaj brings a wealth of experience and variety to the attack. Their performances during the Pakistan tour were impressive,” Adams told SportsBoom.co.za.
“They played key roles as match winners and showed great control and adaptability in the spin-friendly conditions. Together, they form a balanced spin unit that can certainly pose problems for India, especially in subcontinental conditions where spin plays a major role.”
Not only was Adams impressed with the Proteas bowlers, but also with how the batsmen played on the turning surfaces.
“South Africa has chosen a positive route with the bat, and that mindset was evident in the Pakistan series. Players like [Tony de Zorzi] [104 in Lahore and 55 in Rawalpindi], [Tristan] Stubbs, and Muthusamy showed great intent and composure against spin.”
“Against someone like [Ravindra] Jadeja, who thrives on accuracy and subtle variations, the key will be proactive footwork, decisive stroke play, and patience.
“The Proteas batters must look to disrupt his rhythm, whether by using the crease, sweeping, or stepping out to meet the ball early. The confidence gained from playing in spin-friendly conditions in Pakistan will serve them well in India.”