The stage is set perfectly for a high-tension battle ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Unbeaten India take on a confident South African side at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, February 22. There’s more to it than just points – it’s a rematch of the 2024 T20 World Cup final, and both teams come with unblemished group stage records and serious momentum.
India have maintained their clinical form so far, winning all four Group A matches with eight points. South Africa matched that intensity as they cruised through Group D with four wins of their own. Neither side has yet blinked – and that’s what makes this clash so mouth-watering.
For India, Axar Patel is likely to return to his fold, adding balance with both bat and ball. The team management still has a tough call between Kuldeep Yadav and Arshdeep Singh, although the seam-friendly Ahmedabad pitch could swing things in Arshdeep’s favour. South Africa are expected to restore their strongest XI with David Miller, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj and Kagiso Rabada.
Ishan Kishi He was India’s batting engine, scoring 176 runs in four innings, while Varun Chakravarty’s nine wickets overwhelmed the opposition in the middle innings. For the Proteas, captain Aiden Markram’s explosive power play set the tone for the strike rate.
Narendra Modi Stadium Pitch Report, T20I Stats and Records
The Narendra Modi Stadium has gained a reputation over the years as a place where the underdogs can truly express themselves. The surface generally offers good value for shots, with the ball coming into the bat smoothly and consistently. For this high-profile clash, a shaved black clay pitch was developed – a type of wicket traditionally associated with pace, reliable bounce and the potential for big scores.
One of the notable features of this surface is its true bounce and even speed, giving batsmen the confidence to play down the line. Fast bowlers can get some help early on, especially in the first few overs, where there can be a bit of extra carry and some seam movement to keep things interesting. However, once the glare subsides, hitting is expected to be easier.
Spinners may not find much spin, especially under lights, as catching the ball can become difficult. The big pitch is another factor – although well-timed shots still bring boundaries, many good innings can result in singles and twos rather than fours.
While the pitch may slow down as the match progresses, the expected evening dew should balance the conditions and prevent it from being too slow. Interestingly, this surface has evolved over time. Once considered more favorable to bowlers, it now offers a slight edge to batsmen, setting the stage for a competitive and potentially high-scoring contest.
Narendra Modi Stadium T20I Stats and Records
- Matches played: 15
- Matches won in first innings: 10
- Matches won in bowling: 5
- Average score in 1st innings: 173
- Average score in 2nd innings: 151
- Percentage of wickets taken by Pacers: 68.75%
- Percentage of wickets taken by spinners: 31.25%
- Highest score: 234/4 (20 Overs) between India and New Zealand.
- Lowest: 66/10 (12.1 Overs) New Zealand vs India
- Highest Score: 178/3 (17.1 Overs) South Africa vs New Zealand
- Lowest Score Defended: 107/7 (20 Overs) West Indies Women vs India Women
