'We have a stranglehold over them, don't think it'll change' - Makhaya Ntini backs South Africa to trump India

While South Africa have been pretty dominant at home, they have struggled for consistency of late. Yet, former Proteas pacer Makhaya Ntini was of the opinion that they will beat India in the upcoming three-match Test series.

Over the years, India has emerged as one of the best Test sides. Their success in the recent past would give the Kohli-led side a lot of confidence heading into the tour. While he praised India’s bowling attack, the 44-year-old said that the home side knows their conditions better.

“India have a very good bowling attack this time around, but the Proteas know the South African conditions better. This for me will be key,” Ntini, who featured in the 2001 and 2006-07 home series’ against India, said in a CSA release It is to be noted that the last time the Proteas hosted India for a Test series, they beat the visitors by a margin of 2-1.

I’m hoping to see some good cricket between the two sides: Makhaya Ntini 

The legendary pacer also appreciated the batters of the Proteas. He spoke about Dean Elgar’s and Temba Bavuma’s ability to dig in and score big runs. While speaking about Quinton De Kock, he said that he will play his natural game.

“We have the likes of (captain) Dean Elgar and Temba Bavuma, who have the ability to dig in and score big runs and I also like the way that Rassie (van der Dussen) has come in and grown in that team. Then we also have a guy like Quinny (de Kock), who we know will not hold back. He will play his natural game,” he said. Last but not the least, he felt think that the visitors couldn’t win the series this time around as well.

“Then when it comes to our bowling attack, we have a settled unit and one that can definitely put India under pressure. We still have that stranglehold over them because they’ve never won here and I don’t think that will change. It will mean a lot if we can win, but I’m hoping to see some good cricket,” he added.