India suffered a painful 2-0 defeat in the Test series, but the team bounced back strongly in the ODIs with powerful performances from Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Now the focus has completely shifted to the five-match T20I series, which is seen as a key testing ground for the World Cup.
India enters the match with confidence after a 2-1 T20I win against Australia. The young Indian side, packed with aggressive hitters, will be aiming to extend their winning form and start strong against South Africa.
South Africa, however, remains a dangerous T20 team. The Proteas, who dominated the Test series, are determined to repeat that control in the shorter format to build momentum before the World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
South Africa won the toss and chose to field first, putting early pressure on India to set a competitive total in front of an excited crowd at the Barabati Stadium.
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Both teams announced strong lineups. India is led by Suryakumar Yadav, with support from Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah. South Africa fields a dangerous combination featuring Quinton de Kock, Aiden Markram, Dewald Brevis, David Miller and Anrich Nortje.
Fans can watch the match live on the Star Sports Network or stream it on the Jio Hotstar app. Coverage begins an hour before the match.
Head-to-head numbers show India leading with 18 wins, while South Africa has 12 victories, and one match ended without a result.
This match will show how serious both teams are about the T20 World Cup. India looks confident because the young players are in good form. South Africa is strong and has good balance in batting and bowling. Fans expect a close fight because both sides have power hitters and fast bowlers.
India has a slight edge because their young batters are in great touch. But South Africa can win if their fast bowlers take early wickets. If India starts well in the powerplay, they can control the match. If South Africa keeps the pressure with pace and bounce, the game can turn their way.
