Cricket South Africa CEO Gerald Majola confirmed that India had indeed asked for 2 Tests to be played, along with 3 ODIs instead of the originally agreed 5 ODI plan.

"They [India] have requested we play two Tests and three ODIs and we are still considering it," Majola said. "We still have to consult with the South African Cricketers' Association, the team management, our playing regulations and fixtures committees, as well as the board. It would extend the tour by another week, but we would like to accommodate them and I don't foresee a problem with it."

The belated move to play a few Tests against South Africa in the short window available between India's visit to Bangladesh in early January and the start of the Indian Premier League on March 12 next year would enable the team to maintain its number one Test status acquired for the first time by its 2-0 series win over Sri Lanka.

India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni and champion batsman Sachin Tendulkar, among others, have expressed their wish that India should play more Tests than what has been scheduled for now.

As per the current ICC Future Tours Programme for Dhoni and his men, India will not be playing any Test cricket for nine months after its two-Test series in Bangladesh in January.

The next Test series India are to take part in is the three-match home rubber against New Zealand in November. In the 13 months -- from the tour to Bangladesh in January 2010 till the start of the World Cup in February 2011 -- India are to play only eight Tests - two in Bangladesh, three at home against New Zealand and three more in South Africa (Dec. 2010-Jan. 2011).