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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

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