Xtra Time Web Desk: India is gearing up to lock horns with the Proteas at Centurion from 26th December. All the players are leaving no stone unturned in their last-minute preparation before the first ball rolls down the pitch. India vice-captain KL Rahul has already exuded confidence saying that he’s quite acquainted with the challenges in facing fast-bowling in that country. The men in blue have fixed their eyes on a maiden test win on the African soil.
So, ever wondered why is a Test series between the two nations called the “Freedom Series”?
A PTI report stated that the series was originally labelled the Friendship Series. It was South Africa’s way of reciprocating India’s efforts in ending the country’s sporting isolation in 1991.
“India had been among the principal opponents of apartheid. The Freedom Series was felt by both nations to be a be more fitting name in recognition of South Africa’s and India’s shared history of winning freedom through non-violence, not to mention their shared love of cricket!”. Cricket South Africa (CSA) stated in a media release.
A specially designed Freedom Series Trophy Podium was made to commemorate the landmark series that followed its renaming and was unveiled in a special ceremony ahead of the first Test back in 2018.
The two teams will face off in a three-test series and three ODI’s in the upcoming tour.
With Inputs from PTI