We will fight fire with fire in South Africa, says MS Dhoni
India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni says he has not decided on Sachin Tendulkar's replacement at No.4 but his entire team is ready to bring down hosts South Africa in ODI and Test series.
The Indian team may not have an impressive record in South Africa but skipper MS Dhoni is sure that the current side will fight hard and re-write history.
Admitting that the South Africans are strong at home, Dhoni ahead of his team's departure on Sunday said that the three ODIs and two Tests will be keenly fought. "It's a contest between well positioned teams and it will be an interesting series. The ODI series will be played first so we will have some time to adjust," he told reporters here.
The first ODI will be played on December 5 and Dhoni said not having lost a series this year will be an added advantage. "The conditions are different but we have done well in the year so far and have momentum on our side. We have time on our side and will like to have longer practice sessions there." (Also read: The rise and rise of Mohammad Shami, in his own words)
Dhoni though also mentioned that his team is aware of South Africa's strengths. "They (South Africa) have a few players who are god-gifted. And it is always a challenge when you play against a home team," he admitted, adding however that India's batting will look to blunt South Africa's famed bowling attack led by Dale Steyn. "(Murali) Vijay and Shikhar (Dhawan) have done well for us. We also have several other members who are coming after a good domestic series. It will be an interesting series for sure." (Related: Bring on South Africa, we are ready: Shikhar Dhawan)
The Indian team has played well both at home and overseas this year in all formats. Many though are considering the upcoming series as a litmus test for the in-form side which is currently ranked one in ODIs and two in Tests, behind South Africa.
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While the ODI team departed late on Sunday evening, the Board of Control for Cricket in India reportedly has already planned for members of the Test squad to depart early as well. (Read report)
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