India’s awe-inspiring batting depth will face a stern test against South Africa’s quality spin attack when the reasonably well-matched sides clash in an eagerly-anticipated two-match Test series beginning here on Friday.

India would be haunted by the ghosts of last year’s home debacle against New Zealand when their home record was shattered by Kiwi spinners Ajaz Patel, Mitchell Santner and Glenn Phillips, who shared 36 wickets across three Tests, fashioning an unprecedented 0-3 whitewash.

Given South Africa’s heavy reliance on tweakers right now, that collapse against sustained spin pressure will linger in the collective memory of the home side.

The reigning World Test champions are known for fiery pacers historically but are currently armed with one of the most potent spin groups in wo

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