We want to push India for the no.1 spot

South African coach Ottis Gibson looks forward to facing the challenges ahead of Sri Lank in test format and their goals for future. The two teams will lock horns in two-match test series that will kick-off in Galle on July 12.
In a recent interview with ESPN Cricinfo, Ottin Gibson talked about the Sri Lankan conditions. Ahead of the first test, Gibson hinted that South Africa might go for an extra spinner if the pitch will be spin friendly. Irrespective of the conditions which the teams will be having, there is no shadow of a doubt that team will go with pace battery as South Africa is having a lot of strength in this department and South Africa would be totally dependent on them.

Return of Dale Steyn.

From the pace bowling point of view, Kagiso Rabada will be the primary option. The return of Dale Steyn will boost the side who made his comeback against India at home. However at his first outing after injuring himself, he seems to be not finding his rhythm.

Talking about his last summer, South African coach felt rejoiced. He talked about the excitement that the team is enjoying being in the park again and the challenging conditions which South Africa would be had ahead. With the likes of Ngidi and Rabada in the lineup, it will be an interesting battle in the selection of playing XI.

“We will try and pick the best bowler for the conditions that we have. If the conditions are going to favour spin, we will obviously try and get another spinner into the attack. If it looks like it’s going to be a good pitch and we feel that having extra pace will make a difference to the Sri Lankans, we will also consider that option” – Ottis Gibson, South Africa coach said.

Absence of AB de Villiers

Gibson further said that the seniors who have featured there before have to move forward whereas the new faces have to imitate quickly from their seniors. He said surely we will be missing the services of players like AB. Talking about selection, He said that all the members of the team are fit and everybody went through a lot of fitness tests before getting selected. He said we’re ready physically as well as mentally to face this tough challenge.

Being an in-charge of the team, Gibson said he is enjoying and would like to start the new beginning on winning note. With the retirement of AB de Villiers, Gibson said everybody should give his best to grab his position.
In the last tour of South Africa, India won the series convincingly by 3-0 and they can’t validate the same. Gibson while having a taste of he said, “we want to push India for the no.1 Spot”.