The South African cricket team has desperately been searching for a reason to cheer since their disappointing World Cup 2019 campaign. They managed to tie the T20I series against India recently but failed again to leave a mark in the longest format of the game.

Having already lost the three-match series, the Proteas are eyeing to win the final Test in Ranchi so as to end their India tour with a bit of satisfaction and also, avoid a whitewash.

Ahead of the final encounter, skipper Faf du Plessis has called on his players to come out with improved performance, especially with the bat when they take the field in Ranchi. He wants his batsmen to learn from the Indian batters and make the most for one last time.

“We need to put big runs on the board in the first innings. When you get runs in the first innings anything from there is possible. For us first innings runs will be vital and then anything could happen in the second innings,” said du Plessis while addressing a press conference on Thursday.

The Proteas skipper also underlined the importance of reverse swing, a thing which has already been stated by their premier pacer Kagiso Rabada.

“It is really important that you prepare as much as you can and make it as tough as possible. I think wicket will spin, I looked at the pitch and it looks dry and hard. So I think reverse swing and spin will play a factor in this Test match,” du Plessis said.

Meanwhile, South Africa opening batsman Aiden Markram has been ruled out of the final Test after he sustained an injury to his right wrist. According to a Cricket South Africa media release, the injury took place following Markram's dismissal in the second innings of the second match that saw India go on to win by an innings and 137 runs.

India have already taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. However, Virat Kohli has insisted that they will not relax and would aim to extend their lead in the ICC World Test Championships.