Test cricket is considered to be the toughest format in cricket because it tests players' technique, temperament, game awareness, and stamina. The five-day demands both physical and mental endurance, and the need for highly developed technical skills and adaptability. The changing nature of the pitch, weather conditions make a huge impact on the Test match.

Playing on home conditions generally gives a slight edge to the hosting team considering the players know the playing conditions much, having grown up playing in given conditions and pitches. In addition to this, different cricketing countries use different balls mainly because of historical reasons, manufacturers and conditions that suit local pitches. Like India prefer SG balls, England, West Indies use Dukes ball while Australia has Kookaburra balls.

Historically, whenever India have toured South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia (SENA), the batters have struggled. Especially the openers of the visiting team had difficulties as they had to deal with new ball and fresh wicket. Many great openers have come and gone, but most of them struggled. Only one Indian opener has managed to score a hundred in three of the four SENA nations in Test cricket.

KL Rahul is the only Indian opener to have scored a century in South Africa, Australia and England, showcasing his ability to counter challenging conditions and apply himself. Rahul announced himself with a stunning 110-run knock against the mighty Australian side in just his second Test.

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