One of the great series, played with intensity and verve.
From India's perspective, this could have so easily been their series. Aside from the much vilified dropping of Rahane and Bhuvi, it was absolutely crucial that India batted last in the first two tests. Vijay looked like he had a problem early on but seems to have fixed it by the third test.
From SA's perspective, this was a series where their batting failed to deliver the goods, especially in the middle order. QdK looked all at sea. Faf wasn't that convincing. ABdV was convincing as hell but the resultant confidence of his vaunted strokeplay led to his downfall again and again. He is the best, but needs to apply himself more.
Bhuvi and Bumrah have done spectacularly well, and Kohli has to be given due credit for backing Bumrah. Ashwin scored some useful runs and looked good doing it, therefore will be continue to be a prospect for selection in England as well. Pandya shouldn't be selected if four pacers are played. If Ashwin plays, he plays.
Ngidi is a good find for SA as their pace bowling ranks continue to prosper. Philander back amongst the runs, especially difficult runs. They need to sort out their five bowler strategy since it doesn't work with QdK's current form.
And credit to Ishant Sharma as well. He outperformed my expectations and was an important bowler for India.
More thoughts later.
