The attention will definitely shift to the nature of the surface as India and South Africa get set to clash in their first ODI at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi. A venue known to produce some competitive cricket, teams here often win when they make that quick adjustment to the changing conditions over the two innings.
IND vs SA: Pitch Report
The pitch at Ranchi has black soil covering and tends to have something for everyone. Seamers enjoy movement and lively bounce in the first 8 to 10 overs, especially when it’s fresh. Those who get past this phase generally find it easier to score runs since the ball does not shine after a while. As the game heads into the middle overs, the surface tends to slow down, bringing spinners into play with grip and turn on offer, conditions that might assist the likes of Kuldeep Yadav and Keshav Maharaj.
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The ground has witnessed a reasonable balance in the nine ODIs it has hosted so far, with chasing sides winning five and the average first innings total hovering in the 235-265 range. High scores aren’t alien to this venue either, with India once piling 348/6 on this track. The outfield is generally quick and well-timed strokes are usually rewarded.
IND vs SA: Toss Strategy
Since the weather will remain clear and there is possibility of dew in the evening, the ball will travel smoothly and the teams are likely to bowl first. This will help set a competitive total first as the pitch might become a little slow later on. Overall, Ranchi promises a strategic contest pace early, spin in the middle, and conditions easing up for batters as night falls setting the stage for a gripping ODI opener.
