India vs South Africa 2021: India's SWOT analysis

India: Opportunities

(1) India have a chance to beat SA at Centurion

India have lost both their contests against South Africa at Centurion and will be keen to set that record straight when they meet at the venue.

In SA, India have clashed 20 times with the Proteas, with the hosts winning 10 games and losing three.

(2) Young guns have a chance to make a mark

The side goes into the series with some players making big strides in their Test run. The likes of Shreyas Iyer and Mohammed Siraj have been impressive in all of their outings for India. This series provides an opportunity for the duo to continue to make a case for a regular spot in Tests.

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India: Threats

(1) Burnout from playing without breaks

India played their last Test between December 3-6, and have landed on velds less than a month after their last game in the Whites. With the Omicron threat looming, it will be back to bubble life for the team. This may take its toll on the players, who have been previously vocal about adjusting to life in a closed environment.

(2) Omicron virus

With the new coronavirus variant doing the rounds, there is a possibility of the bubble being breached. The true extent of the infection is still unknown. But chances are the team will have a massive dent should some of the players contract the virus.