SA vs IND: Centurion surface grabs the spotlight ahead of Boxing Day

India are gearing up for a challenging two-match Test series against South Africa after clinching the three-match ODI series 1-2. The opening match is set to kick off on December 26 at the SuperSport Park in Centurion, followed by the second encounter at the Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town.

All eyes are now on the crucial factor—the surface for the Boxing Day Test. As the first Test approaches, the Centurion pitch is under intense analysis, sparking numerous speculations. A photo of the pitch has emerged on social media just two days before the Boxing Day Test clash India and South Africa. The photo doesn't offer a close-up perspective, however, from a distance, the pitch seems to be in good condition, showing no apparent greenish tint.

See the photo:

A look at the Supersport Park pitch ahead of India vs South Africa 1st Test in Centurion 👀#SAvIND pic.twitter.com/aHSoHqOUid

— RevSportz (@RevSportz) December 23, 2023

SuperSport Park in Centurion is known for its fast and bouncy pitch, making it one of the quickest wickets in South Africa. The surface tends to favour bowlers, particularly fast bowlers, and batters can also find success once they settle in. Notably, chasing in the fourth innings proved exceptionally difficult, with no team managing to successfully pursue a target of 250 or more in the 28 matches held at this venue.  

Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of Test series

Ruturaj Gaikwad will be absent for the entire Test series due to a right ring finger injury sustained while fielding in the second ODI against South Africa in Gqeberha. Following scans and expert consultation, the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) medical team ruled him out for the rest of the tour, and Abhimanyu Easwaran will replace him.

Meanwhile, senior player Virat Kohli has returned home but is anticipated to rejoin the team before the first Test. After a break post India's defeat in the ODI World Cup final against Australia, Rohit Sharma is set to return to action as the team seeks to secure their inaugural Test series victory in South Africa. In addition, the participation of Kagiso Rabada, the Proteas' key fast bowler, in the first game remains doubtful.