5 critical factors that will help South Africa beat India

The impact of Vernon Philander

Vernon Philander provides South Africa with versatility and balance

In regard to the South African bowling unit, Rabada is the leader. However, the versatility and experience Philander offers creates the balance which could put South Africa ahead in this series. Aside from his bowling, Philander has also made himself into a steady all-rounder currently ranked number 5 in the ICC player rankings.

He can impact the game with his long steady spells where he extracts more from the pitch and conditions then anyone else.

However, the biggest concern for Philander is not to do with his bowling - it is whether he is able to play the entire series without facing injury. If Philander is fit and bowling to his potential, along with Rabada and Styen or Morkel, the South African bowling unit is just that much stronger.