The highly anticipated 1st T20I match between India and South Africa took place as both teams strategized for the upcoming World Cup. India saw a change in leadership, with the toss outcome not favoring them, continuing a trend from the recent ODI series.
Match Overview
Aiden Markram’s South Africa elected to chase after winning the toss. Dew was a significant factor anticipated to influence play during the match. India prepared to bowl first, with Suryakumar Yadav expressing a pragmatic view on dealing with a wet ball.
Team Adjustments
After recovering from injuries, Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya returned to the Indian lineup, alongside Jasprit Bumrah, who had been rested during the ODIs. India aimed to bolster their bowling department by bringing two fast bowlers into the side.
- Indian XI:
- 1. Abhishek Sharma
- 2. Shubman Gill
- 3. Suryakumar Yadav (captain)
- 4. Tilak Varma
- 5. Hardik Pandya
- 6. Shivam Dube
- 7. Jitesh Sharma
- 8. Axar Patel
- 9. Varun Chakravarthy
- 10. Arshdeep Singh
- 11. Jasprit Bumrah
- South African XI:
- 1. Quinton de Kock (wicketkeeper)
- 2. Aiden Markram (captain)
- 3. Tristan Stubbs
- 4. Dewald Brevis
- 5. David Miller
- 6. Donovan Ferreira
- 7. Marco Jansen
- 8. Keshav Maharaj
- 9. Lutho Sipamla
- 10. Anrich Nortje
- 11. Lungi Ngidi
As the match unfolded, India’s strategy to ensure bowling depth highlighted their approach for World Cup readiness. Given the mix of established players and emerging talents, both teams aimed to set a solid foundation for the series ahead.
