The Test gets underway on Saturday morning in Guwahati, and the current crop of Proteas are on the brink of writing the next chapter in their own history.

Rabada has not recovered sufficiently from the rib injury that also sidelined him during South Africa’s hard-fought 30-run win in the first Test in Kolkata. There had been quiet optimism in the camp that he might return in time for the series decider, but earlier this week the selectors moved to add Lungi Ngidi to the squad as cover. Ngidi last featured in red-ball cricket for South Africa during the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in London earlier this year.

Temba Bavuma - Cricinfo

Whether Ngidi cracks the nod for the XI in Guwahati remains to be seen. The final call is expected to come down to conditions, with the Proteas set to make their last pitch inspection on the morning of day one.

Proteas captain Temba Bavuma said they’re keeping their cards close to their chest until they’ve properly assessed the surface - which, notably, has never hosted a Test before.

“Kagiso has been ruled out, so he won’t be involved,” Bavuma confirmed.

“Lungi Ngidi has been added to the squad as cover. In terms of the starting eleven, we’ll finalise that tomorrow once we’ve had one last look at the wicket.

“It looks a lot fresher than Kolkata, with a bit more grass on it, so visibly it seems like it’ll play a lot better in terms of the variability of the bounce. We’d like to lock things in tomorrow morning.”

With a 1–0 lead, South Africa have the rare opportunity to clinch a 2–0 series whitewash on Indian soil - something they haven’t achieved in more than 25 years. Bavuma added that the mood in the camp reflects both belief and anticipation.

Lungi Ngidi - Cricinfo

“The mood is good and buoyant among the boys. We’re excited to try and replicate our performances from the first Test, and also excited to be part of the first Test hosted here in Guwahati.

“It should be an exciting and enthralling match. Everyone is looking forward to it, considering where the series is at and the narrative around it. We’ll just try to make sure we’re locked in for the next five days.”

Play in Guwahati is scheduled to start at 5:30am on Saturday.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport