• Conrad: Proteas can win in India

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    Proteas coach Shukri Conrad says the Test world champions are “quietly confident” about rewriting history in India.

    The Proteas kick off a five-week all-format tour with the first Test at Eden Gardens on Friday, aiming to end a barren run that has seen them record just one victory in their last 10 Tests in India – back in 2010 at Nagpur.

    Conrad told reporters the familiarity many of his players have with Indian conditions through the IPL gives the Proteas belief.

    “Previously, when you came to India for the first time, it had a certain beauty about it – you could be in awe and taken aback by the occasion,” he said.

    “I think because our guys are comfortable in the environment and with the opposition, thanks to their involvement in the IPL, it’s slightly easier for us to adapt to the conditions.”

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    The coach expects a fierce contest but believes South Africa can make a statement.

    “It’s still going to be a helluva difficult Test, but I’m quietly confident that we can make history of our own here, and even go on to win in India.”

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    India are entering a new era after the retirements of stars Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravi Ashwin, with Shubman Gill now leading a youthful side that swept the West Indies 2-0 in his debut home series as captain.

    “I’m glad to see they [Kohli and Sharma] are not here,” Conrad joked. “But Indian Test cricket will always be strong because of the competition for places. If you’ve cracked it at that level, you’ve had to work bloody hard.

    “They’ve got a new bunch of superstars, and fighters like [Mohammed] Siraj who don’t always get the credit they deserve. They’re confident, but so are we. We’ve got exciting, talented cricketers too – and we’re licking our lips for the contest.”

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    Photo: Albert Perez/Getty Images

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    Simon Borchardt