T20I series to begin at Cuttack (Image Credit:- X)
After the Test and ODI series, India and South Africa now shift focus to the T20I series. The first of the five game series will be played at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. South Africa dominated the Test series 2-0, while India responded by winning the ODI series with a 2-1 margin.
With the T20 World Cup approaching in February, it’s time for both teams to finalize their strategies. Following the 2024 World Cup final, India have excelled in T20Is, whereas South Africa have seen a dip in this format.
Also Read:- India hammer South Africa by 9 wickets to seal 2-1 series win
This T20I is crucial for South Africa as they look to find the right combination and rhythm in the shortest format.
India – Team News
The good news for Team India is that Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya have returned from injury. Gill suffered a neck spasm during the first test against South Africa, while Hardik sustained a quadriceps injury during the Asia Cup.
Gill will open the batting with Abhishek Sharma, while Hardik will strengthen the lower order batting and bowling. A major talking point is whether Sanju Samson or Jitesh Sharma will be chosen as the wicketkeeper batter.
India Probable XI:- Abhishek Sharma , Shubman Gill , Sanju Samson (wk) , Suryakumar Yadhav , Tilak Varma , Hardik Pandya , Shivam Dube , Axar Patel , Kuldeep Yadhav , Varun Chakravarthy , Jasprit Bumrah.
South Africa – Team News
Aiden Markram returns to the T20I side after missing the Pakistan series, providing South Africa with experience and stability. He is expected to open the batting alongside Quinton de Kock. David Miller and Anrich Nortje have also returned from injury, giving South Africa strength and depth for the series.
South Africa Probable XI:- Quinton de Kock , Aiden Markram (c) , Reeza Hendricks , Dewald Brevis , David Miller , Tristan Stubbs , Corbin Bosch , Marco Jansen , Keshav Maharaj , Lungi Ngidi , Anrich Nortje.
Pitch Report
The conditions will assist seamers early, offer some grip for spinners, but dew later will make bowling very challenge. The captain who wins the toss usually prefer to chase, taking advantage of dew.
Time
Match will begin at 07:00 PM, IST.