'This is the best opportunity for us to win our first series in South Africa' : Cheteshwar Pujara

India are set to play a three-match Test series against South Africa starting December 26. The team has never won a Test series in the rainbow nation but this could well be their best chance to script history. Indian team is on a roll and have beaten teams like England, Australia and New Zealand in recent times. Meanwhile, South Africa have gone downhill post the retirement of their big guns. The team is going through a transition and against a quality India team, it won't be easy for them.

India batter Cheteshwar Pujara is also optimistic that the Virat Kohli-led side can beat South Africa in South Africa. India came close to winning a series on their last visit but went down 2-1. However, Pujara feels this series is India's best chance to win end their losing streak in the country. "I am sure there is enough time for us to prepare and guys are looking forward to this series. This is the best opportunity for us to win our first series in South Africa. So all of us are looking forward to it," Pujara was quoted by India today.

The Indian team have landed in South Africa and have begun their preparation. The team recently enjoyed a fun footvolley session with head coach Rahul Dravid. The main reason for India's success overseas has been the dream run of their fast brokers. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj have played pivotal roles in India's wins away from home. Pujara is confident that Indian pacers will give them 20 wickets in each of the three Tests.

"Our fast bowlers are our strength and I hope that they will be able to utilise these conditions and give us 20 wickets in every Test match. They have been the difference between the two sides whenever we have played abroad," Pujara added.
"If you look at the Australia series, even if you look at the England series, we have done exceptionally well as a bowling unit and I am sure that will be the case even in South Africa," said the veteran of 92 Tests and 6589 runs.

Meanwhile, Pujara himself will look to get back to form after going through a lean patch in the previous year.