'They can go on to win the series in Cape Town' - Vernon Philander backs South Africa after Johannesburg triumph

While India won the first of the three-match Test series in Centurion, South Africa managed to make a spectacular comeback, and won the second Test by seven wickets. With the series currently reading 1-1, the third Test promises to be an absolute cracker of a contest.

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However, former South African pacer Vernon Philander felt that the Elgar-led side could go on to win the series. He stressed the fact that the victory at Johannesburg would give the Proteas the much-needed confidence. While speaking to cricket.com.za., he also spoke about how Newlands is one of the favourite grounds of the hosts.

"The last Test would have given South Africa a massive boost on all fronts. Very often that is all that you need, one win as a team to give you that confidence and momentum. They will feel they now have that behind them and they can go on to win the series. Coming to Newlands, one of our favourite hunting grounds, I’m really looking forward to the final Test. It’s going to be a cracker," said Vernon Philander.

The former Proteas pacer spoke very highly of the South African captain Dean Elgar. He was mighty impressed with the way he batted during the fourth innings of the second Test. The opener went on to score an unbeaten 96.

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“We have to signal out Dean and the way he batted all the way through. He made sure he stayed and built partnerships with the other batters around him," he said.  The 36-year-old also appreciated Kagiso Rabada for his spell in the first session of day three.

“Then with the ball we can’t not mention KG and that one spell where he turned the game upside down after lunch. In a series like this against a strong India team, you’re going to need bowlers to deliver spells like those that break the game open completely," he added.