South Africa face a demanding task of three Tests in three weeks after the itinerary for their tour of India was announced.

Graeme Smith's team will arrive from Bangladesh, where they will play two Tests and three ODIs, on March 18 and play a three-day warm-up match against India A at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai. Three back-to-back Tests then follow in Chennai, Ahmedabad and Kanpur in a 21-day period starting from March 26.

South Africa's last tour of India was in November 2004 and they went down 1-0 in a two-Test series. However, they should arrive for the latest trip in decent spirits after a home victory over West Indies, while the Bangladesh tour will act as useful preparation.

Itinerary

March 18 Arrival in Mumbai
March 20-22 India A, Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai
March 26-30 First Test, Chennai
April 3-7 Second Test, Ahmedabad
April 11-15 Third Test, Kanpur