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Bumrah and Rabada headline a thrilling 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 always steal the spotlight in 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 rest — 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 take on South Africa in a short two-Test series starting Friday in Kolkata.
Former South African captain Graeme Smith, speaking at the SA20 India Day 2025 event in Mumbai, said the Bumrah-Rabada showdown could well decide the outcome of the series.
“It’s never at the forefront of conversation when you’re playing cricket in the subcontinent — pace bowling,” Smith said. “But both these guys (Bumrah and Rabada) are world-class… countering Bumrah upfront is going to be a big thing for South Africa. And Rabada, as well, will pose that challenge for India.”
Smith added that while India will rely on their top order to handle Rabada’s pace and accuracy, Rabada himself faces a defining challenge.
“This is a big test for KG,” Smith said. “He’s the leader of the attack, and how he sets the tone with that new ball will be crucial for Temba (Bavuma) and the team.”
With Bumrah leading India’s charge and Rabada spearheading South Africa’s counter, this series promises a riveting battle of fire versus fire, and the dust is set to fly in Kolkata on Friday.
After training in the field 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 field 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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