IND v SA | Need to put big runs on the board in first innings, says Faf du Plessis

2015 — the last time they toured here — and the two matches so far in 2019 are ample proof for the case against South Africa being India’s toughest opponents at home. But things weren’t so dull when they stepped out to bat after India put up 502 for seven and got as far as 431 all out. However, the performances that followed indicate that perhaps that first innings was a blip, an anomaly of sorts. 

India, on the other hand, has posted scores of 502 for seven (decl.), 323 for four (decl.), and 601 for five (decl.), and du Plessis wants his batsmen to learn and execute the same come Saturday.

"We need to put big runs on the board in the first innings. When you get runs in the first innings anything from there is possible. For us first innings runs will be vital and then anything could happen in the second innings," du Plessis told IANS while addressing a press conference on Thursday.

How they go about managing that without Markram at the top — who sustained an injury during the second Test at Pune — is yet to be seen. With the series already gone, heading into the third encounter on the back of an innings-and-137-run-defeat paint a pale picture. But their skipper, much known for his tough mental resolve, wants his boys to go out in Ranchi with the sole intention of making it as tough as possible for the hosts.

"It is really important that you prepare as much as you can and make it as tough as possible. I think wicket will spin, I looked at the pitch and it looks dry and hard. So I think reverse swing and spin will play a factor in this Test match," du Plessis added.