De Villiers says beating India in first Champions Trophy clash 'key to success'

South African captain AB de Villiers has said that beating India in their first ICC Champions Trophy clash is the key to success in the eight-nation tournament.

South Africa, ranked No.1 in the world in Tests but just fourth in one-day internationals, have long been known as chokers for their inability to turn talent into trophies, the Daily Star reports.

Stating that the Champions Trophy will be a good test for his squad for the upcoming World Cup, to take place after two years, De Villers said that his team has to start strong against India in Cardiff and use the momentum to their advantage.

According to the report, De Villiers is understandably wary of his team's dangerous group opponents in Pakistan, India and West Indies, although with the likes of himself, fast bowler Dale Steyn, new batting powerhouse David Miller and the consistent opener Hashim Amla, the Proteas will be confident of their chances.

Even with Amla's opening partner Graeme Smith out injured and veteran all-rounder Jacques Kallis resting, South Africa are likely to be huge challengers for the trophy which they won the first time it was contested back in 1998, the report added.