Elgar's blueprint for the Proteas' success in India

FORMER Proteas Test captain and opening batter Dean Elgar has emphasised the importance of meticulous preparation ahead of what is often a gruelling Test series in India.

- ONGAMA GCWABE

For the Proteas, touring India can be a brutal experience. Many players have arrived on Indian shores brimming with hope for a long Test career, only to have their ambitions crushed by India's ruthlessness at home returning with their tails between their legs.

In some cases, those players have struggled to see a future for themselves in Test cricket afterwards. Simon Harmer is one such example. After the 2015 tour, during which South Africa were whitewashed, Harmer was dropped from the squad.

Senuran Muthusamy knows that experience all too well, having been omitted from the Test side after his maiden tour to India six years ago. The list goes on.

For those mentally strong enough to persist, and fortunate enough to be given a second chance, a return to India offers the ultimate test and, perhaps, redemption.

Elgar emphasised the importance of learning from past mistakes and preparation heading into Indian conditions.