A long multi-format tour South Africa for India Now it’s on to the final and most explosive phase: the five-match T20 international series. Series opener, T20 World Cup champion, Indiasurmounted by a star South Africa side by side Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. India, led by the aggressor Suryakumar Yadavhigh on confidence after the recent ODI series win and their dominant global T20 form. South Africa, Capt Aiden Markrambounced back from recent failures in the shortest format, but with an arsenal of power hitters and quick pacers, this is shaping up to be a much-anticipated clash between the two T20 heavyweights.
IND VS SA, 1st T20I: Match details
| Detail | Information |
| Date and Time | December 9 (Tuesday); 7:00 PM Standard / 1:30,3:30 GMT / 7:00 PM Local |
| Location | Barabati Stadium, Kesma |
| Head-to-head record (T20IS) | India have a strong advantage having won 18 of their 31 matches with South Africa (NR: 1) securing 12 wins. |
Barabati Stadium pitch report
Barabati Stadium has a very limited history of T20 internationals with only three previous matches. Historically, the surface is known to be a balanced track, offering help for both pace and spin, although the fast bowler averages better here. However, South Africa have won against India at this venue while chasing both their previous T20I encounters. The field tends to be on the slow side, giving a score around the 160-170 mark. However, with the possibility of dewing during second throws, the throwing captain will likely choose to bowl first to take advantage of the easier chasing conditions.
India vs South Africa: Team dynamics and key players
India: India are the highest ranked T20I team boasting a formidable batting line-up with explosives Abhishek Sharma Above, the returning vice-captain Shubman Gilland exceptional stroke play Suryakumar Yadav. It’s a complete turnaround Hardik Pandya and pace spear Jasprit Bumrah significantly strengthens the side. India’s Spin Attack with wrist-spin Kuldeep Yadav and mystery Varun chakrabortyis expected to be the main weapon in the home fields.
South Africa: South Africa brings a lot of firepower to the shortest format, which is the main spin Anrich Nortje and David Miller. He relies on his batting experience Quinton de Kock and like, miles completed by young, explosive talents Dewald brevis and Tristan Stubbs. Captain Aiden Markram provides stability and a convenient option. Their pace attack, nortje, Success and Marco Jansencapable of challenging high pace bowling and innings batters. They will be keen to exploit their perfect 2-0 record against India at this venue.
Read: IND VS SA: 3 South African players who can trouble India in T20I series
Ind VS SA, 1st T20I: Today’s Match Prediction
Case 1:
- India wins the toss and bowls for the first time
- South Africa PowerPlay Score: 45-55 (6 overs)
- South Africa Total Score: 160-175
Case 2:
- South Africa win the toss and bat first
- India PowerPlay Score: 55-65 (6 overs)
- India Total Score: 175-190
Match Result: India to win the competition
Read: IND VS SA: 3 Indian players who can cause trouble in South Africa in T20I series
