South African batting legend Hashim Amla believes that the South African Test team’s relative inexperience in Indian conditions can actually turn into an unexpected advantage. Rather than seeing this as a hindrance, Amla feels that the lack of historical baggage could free the Proteas from the psychological scars of previous tours.
India has long been a difficult destination for South Africa. Their only Test series win on Indian soil came back in 1999–00 when Hansie Cronje’s men stunned the Tendulkar-led side 2–0. Since then, the Proteas have endured a tough run, with their last Test win in India dating back to 2010 in Nagpur.
AMLA SEES INEXPERIENCE AS A HIDDEN ADVANTAGE
But this time the circumstances are different. Arriving as the reigning World Test Championship winnersTemba Bavuma’s side carries renewed faith and a rejuvenated team. Only five players from the current squad – Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, Kagiso Rabada, Senuran Muthusamy and Zubayr Hamza – were part of South Africa’s previous tour in 2019. The rest will experience India’s unique conditions for the first time.
For Amla, the fresh slate could be a boon.
“The South African team has some inexperienced guys who have come to India for the first time and that can also be an advantage because you come to a new place where you haven’t played before,” he said during the SA20 India Day talks.
“You have a lot less baggage from previous tours and you come in with a fresh mind. That could work in South Africa’s favour.”
Like The Proteas are gearing up for another tough subcontinental challengeAmla’s optimism offers an interesting twist to the narrative. Instead of fear of spinning tracks or memories of past struggles, this team arrives with confidence, curiosity and a desire to prove themselves. Buoyed by the pace of the world champions and fueled by new faces eager to make their mark, South Africa have an opportunity to redefine their story in India.
Whether this clean thinking translates into success on the field will ultimately determine whether the Proteas finally turn the long-awaited corner in the subcontinent.
– The end
Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
November 13, 2025
