South Africa have shaken off the disappointment of the first Test and will start with a clean slate for the second match which starts on Saturday in Bengaluru.
Proteas all-rounder Vernon Philander says the squad has taken confidence from competing for the majority of the first Test, but is looking ahead to the second Test with an enlightened approach.
‘Come Saturday it’s a brand new Test match,’ Philander said. ‘It’s 0/0 whether we bat or bowl first. We have learnt a lot from the conditions and what will be thrown at us from the last game, so hopefully we can take our knowledge and apply it in the next game.’
Philander says his role with the new ball in India takes on a different dimension to that in South African conditions, and has looked to implement the dual role of striking upfront while creating pressure in the current series. He took 3-61 in the first Test and bowled with good intensity and discipline in a match dominated by spinners, and has learnt to accept the change of roles on the subcontinent.
‘The new ball has two components to it,’ he explained. ‘You are looking to strike but when you play on the sub-continent, batsmen will tell you that the new ball is also the best time to score. For us it’s about looking to strike but also about keeping it tight upfront. This then brings the spinners in the game once the pressure has been created because the batsmen will be looking to release. There are two parts to it.
‘At the end of the day I do my job,’ he said. ‘I’m part of a bowling attack that needs to take 20 wickets. You aren’t going to be in the lime light all of the time. Sometimes you have to do the dirty work so the other guys can strike. I’m pretty happy with where I’m at.’
Philander’s Test and first-class average of 25 does not give enough credit to his potential with the bat, a role he has committed to improve particularly on the sub-continent where every run on the board is invaluable.
‘It’s key for all of us right down to the No 11 to contribute with the bat. It showed in the last game how vital each and every run can be so the longer we can bat and the more runs we can contribute with the better to our cause. Everyone is vital when you play on the sub-continent, with low scoring games everyone is going to count. I am looking forward to contributing with the bat and hopefully to a series win.’
