Since their readmission to cricket, South Africa's record here at Newlands has been impeccable. In 21 Tests, they have won fourteen, drawn four and lost just thrice, incidentally all against Australia
Since their readmission to cricket, South Africa's record here at Newlands has been impeccable. In 21 Tests, they have won fourteen, drawn four and lost just thrice, incidentally all against Australia.
|
| S Sreesanth (right) and SA skipper Graeme Smith exchange words in Durban |
This point was driven home by SA skipper Graeme Smith, who is particularly satisfied after looking at the surface prepared for the third and final Test against India. "This pitch will have a little more bounce and carry than the previous few Tests. I am very pleased to see that," Smith said.
"Hopefully, we can return to our best after our batting let us down at Durban. All our batsmen have fantastic records at Newlands. It's a very strong ground for us. We want to put up a big performance and seal the series. We have kept India down to less than 250 on three occasions in the series, that says a thing or two about our bowling," he added.
Smith dismissed claims that it was India who hold the momentum after the visitors' 87-run win at Kingsmead. "Momentum is a subjective thing. These days, Test matches are played so quickly, within a space of few days. Pressure will be on both teams. It is going to be a tense Test match," he said.
Asked to react to coach Corrie van Zyl's comments about S Sreesanth sledging Smith in the previous Test, Smith said: "There is no bad blood between the teams. It is just one individual who crossed the line, we can't do anything about it.
Both teams are mature. MS Dhoni and I had a chat last night and sorted the issue out. Both teams respect each other and believe the series be played in the right spirit."
