India play South Africa in the second Test match of the series at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The Proteas lead the series 1-0 after a rather convincing, innings win over the Indians at Nagpur, and will look to snatch away the number one position from India and in the process win the pay cheque of $175,000 from the ICC. A drawn series will help India retain the top spot. 
The Indians have made quite a few changes to their side, probably a little too late in the day. Suresh Raina makes his way into the side, and as does Dinesh Karthik. Rohit Sharma is obviously out due to his injury, whereas Wriddhiman Saha also makes his way out to accommodate a more experienced wicket-keeper. Luckily for the Indians, VVS Laxman has been declared fit and should be a part of the starting eleven.
South Africa have been in the news for Graeme Smith’s injury, but apart from that, there hasn’t been too much activity from their camp. They have decided it play it cool, despite the news that the Kolkata pitch may be rank turner and affect their chances.
Talking of the pitch, there has been a lot of in-fighting between the team and the management at CAB, which looks into the pitch. There was a lot of grass on the wicket, and that could only mean that someone like Dale Steyn will be licking his fingers. For someone who made the ball talk on a barren track like the one at Nagpur it will be difficult to see him fail at Kolkata! Beware India!
The home advantage obviously means that India will go into the game as favourites – offered 3 (888Sport) – as compared to the South Africans, who are at 4 by Boylesports. Rather surprisingly, the bookies feel that the best possible result for the game is a draw and Sky Bet offers 2.2 for the same.