India vs South Africa: Darryl Cullinan labels Proteas as underdogs

New Delhi: As the Proteas are all set to start their campaign against hosts India, former South African batsman Darryl Cullinan has put the visitors in the category of underdogs.

Considering the conditions and pitches in India, Cullinan believes that acclimatising would be an issue for several youngsters, who have been picked for the lengthy tour, comprising three T20s, five ODIs and four Tests.

“Surely, South Africa (are the underdogs). They are coming out of winter and haven't been fresh. AB de Villiers and Hashim Amla are experienced but to arrive in India straight from winters, you need experience.

“It's not only about pitch conditions but overall weather conditions. To hit the ground running and confident against spinners, you need experience and I am not sure about the other guys,” Cullinan told Cricbuzz.

Despite knowing the fact that Indian batsmen have been struggling against spinners for quite some time now, the 48-year-old feels that South African pace battery has to play a major role in the much-anticipated series.

“It's got to come from Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel. Steyn, in the recent times, is a very flat starter in terms of wickets. Morkel, in those conditions, has to be very precise with his line and length as he can provide pace to the Indian batsmen....the spinners don't have a lot of experience. I don't think they are going to bowl India out,” added Cullinan.