JOIN US Sachin Tendulkar has issued a warning to triumphant India about their upcoming World Cup match against South Africa, saying the Proteas were "far superior" to arch-rivals Pakistan.
India started the defence of their title with a convincing 76-run win over Pakistan in Adelaide last Sunday, with Virat Kohli making a brilliant 107.
However, Tendulkar said India would need a strong opening partnership and careful running between the wickets to beat South Africa, one of the pre-tournament favourites, in this coming Sunday's clash at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
"It won't be so easy to pick singles," Tendulkar told Headlines Today channel on Monday.
"They (South Africa) are much faster. Their throwing arm is more powerful and their outfielding is excellent. They cover the area much better than Pakistan."
Tendulkar singled out South Africa's spearhead Dale Steyn as the man India's batsmen needed to fear.
"Without any doubt he's their strike bowler. He's bowls unbelievably well," he said."You can't pre-decide how to play Steyn, he could also have a bad day, you have to decide in the moment but you have to respect Dale Steyn, you need to be watchful upfront but take your opportunities."