Simon Harmer says Eden Gardens wicket not the worst he’s seen in India

Harmer is the only player in the team who was part of the 2015 side that was whitewashed 3-0, with the only other squad member being Kagiso Rabada, who is not playing in this first test match due to injury.

"From memory, the wickets of 2015 were probably worse. If I think about the wicket in Mohali, it basically disintegrated on Day 1.

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South Africa only managed 159 in the first innings while the hosts were also bowled out for a below par 189, with Harmer returning the best bowling figures for the Proteas of 4/30 in 15 overs.

He was also quick to defend his teammates, who at times seemed shell-shocked out in the middle, and couldn’t get going with the bat.

"It's very easy to pass judgment sitting from the outside. When you walk into that cauldron with the ball turning and then not turning, is really difficult to navigate.

"But it's about settling your nerves, accepting the pressure, and trying to find a way to battle through the first 20 balls."

The 36-year-old says he’s not frustrated that his efforts could well be in vain, but believes they’ll put up a good fight to try and come out on top.

As things stand on Day 3 in this test match, India are 64-5 in their second innings, needing 60 runs to win.