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Bumrah and Rabada headline an exhilarating pace battle as India faces South Africa in a two-Test series starting Friday in Kolkata, with Graeme Smith calling it a key contest.
Jasprit Bumrah and Kagiso Rabada (AFP)
Pace may not all the time steal the highlight within the subcontinent, but when two of the world’s best go head-to-head, expect sparks to fly.
Still, amid the talk of turning pitches and spin duels, one narrative towers above the remaining — the mouthwatering pace battle between Jasprit Bumrah and Kagiso Rabada.
India will look to reprise their tried-and-tested home template — big first-innings totals and relentless spin pressure — as they tackle South Africa in a brief two-Test series starting Friday in Kolkata.
Former South African captain Graeme Smith, speaking on the SA20 India Day 2025 event in Mumbai, said the Bumrah-Rabada showdown could well resolve the consequence of the series.
“It’s never on the forefront of conversation while you’re playing cricket within the subcontinent — pace bowling,” Smith said. “But each these guys (Bumrah and Rabada) are world-class… countering Bumrah upfront goes to be an enormous thing for South Africa. And Rabada, as well, will pose that challenge for India.”
Smith added that while India will depend on their top order to handle Rabada’s pace and accuracy, Rabada himself faces a defining challenge.
“It is a big test for KG,” Smith said. “He’s the leader of the attack, and the way he sets the tone with that latest ball shall be crucial for Temba (Bavuma) and the team.”
With Bumrah leading India’s charge and Rabada spearheading South Africa’s counter, this series guarantees a riveting battle of fireplace versus fire, and the dust is about to fly in Kolkata on Friday.
After training in the sector of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term…Read More
After training in the sector of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term… Read More
November 12, 2025, 17:15 IST
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