'TOUGHEST CHALLENGE'

PROTEAS: CONRAD SAYS THE INDIA TEST SERIES IS AS BIG AS THE WTC FINAL

- Wesley Botton

Nearly three years after he was appointed as the national Test coach, Shukri Conrad says his team are facing their toughest five-day challenge since he took charge when they turn out against India in the first of two five-day matches in Kolkata starting tomorrow.

Aiming to win a Test in India for the first time in 15 years, Conrad said yesterday a victory in the series opener would mean as much to the Proteas as their triumph in the World Test Championship final against Australia.

"India is a tough challenge anywhere in the world, and when you come to an iconic venue like Eden Gardens it just makes it even tougher," Conrad said.