On the eve of commencement of probably the most important Test series witnessed in recent times between any two countries, ‘Master-blaster’ and ‘God of Cricket’ Sachin Tendulkar had a world of advice to Indians led by the newly-married Virat Kohli. “Whether you bat or bowl, be cautious on the first day of the 1st Test as it would set the tone for the rest of the series,” Sachin told Team India.

India, which has been on a roll after successive Test series, ODI series and T20 series victories over several opponents including Australia, is keen to set the record straight when the two teams meet tomorrow (05th January) for the first Test to be played in Cape Town as part of a 3-Test, 6 ODIs and 3 T20 matches in a long and grueling series which concludes only in the last week of February.

Sachin, who made a mesmerizing 146 at Cape Town during the 2010-11 series and who has led many Indian battles during his illustrious career, is among the many contemporary cricketers who believe that this Indian team led by Virat Kohli and which has a bowling Unit comprising Bhuvanesh Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav and Jaspreet Bumrah, can beat South Africa at their backyard.

“First session’s play on the first day of the 1st Test during an away tour is always very, very important and tough as it sets the tone for the rest of the series.  India’s success depends on the strength of its batting and how our frontline batsmen play the SA pacers. Blunting the threat of the new ball in the initial phase is of utmost significance; scoring high and putting pressure on SA is a way to win,” Sachin said.