Domingo says India series 'would be good gauge of progress' for Proteas team

Proteas coach Russell Domingo has said that the three-match ODI series against No.1 ranked India will be a good gauge of the progress his squad has made in recent months, according to reports.

According to Sport24, the Proteas followed their 4-1 loss to Sri Lanka with an improved performance against Pakistan, and face a stern challenge against their new sub-continental opponents.

Domingo is also confident Dale Steyn and Jacques Kallis will be ready to play in the first ODI at the Wanderers on Thursday, the report said.

The pair missed the last ODI against Pakistan on Saturday, but the coach said they would make a welcome return for the start of the Indian tour at the Bullring, the report added.

Although Kallis played in the two ODIs the Proteas lost against Pakistan, his presence in the team would be a boost, Domingo said.

Despite holding the top spot in the Test rankings, the Proteas lie way down in fifth position in ODIs, and playing India, who are the top team in the 50-over format, would give South Africa a good idea of their progress, the report further said.

He added that the team knew that India was going to be a tough assignment, as their team had come off some outstanding performances.