South Africa has not secured a Test win in India since 2010, though they famously triumphed at Eden Gardens by 329 runs back in 1996.

In total, they have won five out of 19 Tests in India with three draws, which is not the worst record for a visiting team, but they have lost their last five matches consecutively, all by significant margins.

Maharaj discusses what to anticipate from the pitches, maintaining focus on the tour, and his Indian heritage.

The pitches in India and what to expect

"I don’t believe the pitches will be as spin-dominant as what we encountered in Pakistan. I expect good wickets that will wear down as the match progresses, likely more of the traditional Test surfaces based on what we’ve observed so far.

"If you saw the recent West Indies series India played, those were quality wickets lasting into days four and five. I think the trend is shifting; the pitches are more balanced and deteriorate naturally over time.

"India is an excellent team, and with their current transition, I think they aim to produce good cricket pitches rather than ones with extreme spin, judging by recent years."

How the team has settled in India

"Yes, we’re lucky to be able to leave the hotel. We arrived only two days ago, so we haven’t explored much yet. There has been a lot of media work, camera sessions, and training.

"But I’m sure when the guys get a chance, they’ll definitely go out, perhaps to a coffee shop in the morning or something similar, just to get a little break."

How the team is approaching this tour

"There’s a strong hunger and determination within the squad to beat India. It’s probably one of the toughest tours, if not the toughest, in the Proteas’ schedule across generations. Some players in the past have managed to overcome this challenge, and as a team, we view it as one of our biggest tests.

"It’s also a great opportunity to assess ourselves and see how far we’ve progressed. Gradually, we’ve started mastering conditions across the subcontinent, and this is a challenge we want to confront head-on.

"The team is focused on executing the basics well, maintaining intensity, and building momentum from Pakistan, where we demonstrated our fighting spirit regardless of circumstances. Partnerships, both in batting and bowling, have been vital for us. It’s encouraging to see different players stepping up when required. That shared responsibility is very positive."

Having runs on the board

"Runs and wickets are both essential elements for a team’s success. As a spinner bowling in the fourth innings to win a Test, having a cushion of runs is obviously important.

"Our batting lineup has improved greatly. Hundreds are distributed among the group, which is excellent; at any moment, someone takes responsibility. In the subcontinent, a score of 60 can sometimes feel like 150 elsewhere. Our batsmen have embraced that mentality, and it’s reflected in the outcomes."

Insights from South Africa’s recent ‘A’ tour of India from Temba Bavuma

"He has obviously provided us with insights, mainly advising not to overanalyze conditions from that tour, as they don’t fully represent what we’ll encounter here in Kolkata. But there are many positives to take, especially regarding strategies against certain bowlers and how to counter specific attacks. The way some of our batsmen performed there also offers valuable information to build upon."

Keeping busy on tour

"It’s mostly about getting out of your room and breaking the routine. Coffee culture is big in our team. Everyone meets, chats, and it offers a nice change of environment.

"There’s always cricket talk going on, which is great, and it’s nice that both younger and senior players are involved. Even in Pakistan, we made time to dine out together. It fosters team spirit and keeps the mood positive."

Playing in India with his family heritage

"India is always special; it’s the land of my ancestors, so coming here feels nostalgic. From a cricket perspective, it’s an incredible culture to be part of.

"Eden Gardens is one of the three bucket-list venues for any cricketer, alongside Lord’s and the MCG. The fans here are on another level, and it’s an honor to play in a place with such history and spirit. I’m really excited about it, especially playing in the land of my forefathers."