India's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has emphasized the critical importance of the upcoming Test series against South Africa, labeling it as a significant milestone in India's campaign to secure a spot in next year's World Test Championship final.
Building Towards WTC Glory
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, the former Netherlands international acknowledged South Africa's impressive recent form but stressed that India remains focused on maintaining their dominant home record. "Absolutely, I think they deserve a lot of credit for how they've gone about their work in the last nine, ten months," Ten Doeschate stated regarding the Proteas.
The coach highlighted South Africa's achievement of defeating Australia in the previous WTC final as evidence of their quality, but quickly shifted focus to India's own ambitions. "The WTC is just so important. There's no series that you can just take back and let slip by," he emphasized, noting the challenge of managing all three formats with the World Cup approaching.
Historic Series Marks New Beginnings
This series marks South Africa's first Test tour of India since 2019, when the hosts delivered a comprehensive 3-0 series sweep. The 2025 encounter begins with the first Test at Kolkata's iconic Eden Gardens on November 14, followed by the second Test in Guwahati from November 22 - which will host its first-ever Test match.
India, currently positioned third in the WTC standings, will be led by young batting sensation Shubman Gill, while wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant makes his much-anticipated return to the Test setup after recovering from his serious injury. South Africa, under captain Temba Bavuma, arrive as the reigning WTC champions and pose a significant threat to India's home dominance.
High-Stakes Contest Ahead
Ten Doeschate made it clear that the team views these matches as essential stepping stones toward their ultimate goal. "Obviously, a very big step to us achieving getting to the WTC final next year. So yeah, everyone's looking forward to it. It should be a great contest," he expressed with evident anticipation.
With both teams nearly at full strength and carrying impressive recent form, the series promises to deliver intense cricketing action. Following the two Tests, the teams will compete in three ODIs and five T20Is, making for a comprehensive tour that will test both sides across formats.
The stage is set for what promises to be a thrilling contest between two of Test cricket's heavyweights, with crucial World Test Championship points and national pride on the line.
