Playing xis
1st T20I: Gill, Pandya Return As South Africa Elect To Bowl Against India
The hosts arrive hoping to carry their momentum from their previous T20I series, where they defeated Australia. They've received a boost with the addition of Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya, who mark their return to international cricket after recovering from their respective injuries. Meanwhile, the visitors see this as a chance to bounce back after losing the recently concluded ODI series against India 2-1.
For the first time in the venue’s varied history, a red-soil surface has been prepared, bringing with it the usual uncertainties of an untested wicket. Still, as India work toward finding the ideal blend of personnel and balance ahead of the 2026 World Cup in February–March, the team should welcome these conditions, especially with comparable pitches likely to feature during the tournament.
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- 16 Mar 2026 10:15
