India, Oct. 9 -- South Africa and Australia are set to renew their Test rivalry in a series that carries significant weight in the race for the 2027 World Test Championship final. Australia currently sits at the top of the WTC standings, with defending champions South Africa close behind, making the opening encounter an important opportunity for both sides to strengthen their positions. However, the spotlight is also likely to fall on the infamous Sandpapergate controversy from Australia's 2018 tour of South Africa, adding another layer to an already high-profile contest. The hosts enter the red-ball leg after winning the preceding ODI series 2-1, but their lack of recent Test cricket could prove a challenge.

Both teams also have selecti...