Kumble calls on batters to take game to South Africa

Chennai: India skipper Anil Kumble wants his team to maintain their intensity to clinch the home series against South Africa and set the tone for a busy season.

The 37-year-old leg spinner said the batsmen should provide the initiative in the first Test, which begins in Chennai today.

"Whenever we've played at home we have been able to post big scores. That will be the key," he said yesterday.

"I'm confident we will put up a big score. Once you do that the pressure of playing on a [turning] pitch and also the faster bowlers, it will be difficult."

He was confident he can motivate the side, despite the series coming soon after a draining Australia tour. India lost the Tests 2-1 and a young side upset the hosts in the tri-series.

"We could see the intensity in the practice sessions that we have had," he said. "Nowadays cricketers understand the need for intensity on the field throughout the series."

But he was wary of South Africa, bidding for an Asian treble after wins in Pakistan and Bangladesh, although a grassless pitch and sapping humidity could play into the hands of the hosts.

'Good surface'

"It is a good surface, a typical Chennai wicket," said Kumble.

"It should be good for batting and as the game progresses, the spinners will come into the picture."

Meanwhile, concerns have been raised over South Africa's prospects after the tourists arrived with only 13 players.

The squad is without leading bowlers, Andre Nel and Charl Langeveldt, who will not play following a race selection row.

Spinner Robin Peterson has also delayed his arrival due to personal reasons.

But captain Greame Smith said, he was confident of his side's chances.

"We will play one spinner, Paul Harris, and three seamers," said Smith.

"I believe we have the team to do the job for us."

The Proteas will clinch the number two Test spot behind Australia if they win.