South Africa are set to take on India in the first T20I of a four-match series at Kingsmead in Durban. Ahead of the match, let’s take a look at South Africa vs India 1st T20I Match Preview, SA vs IND Dream11 Prediction, Durban pitch report, and fantasy cricket tips.
India, eager to make a mark after a tough home series loss against New Zealand, is set to face South Africa in a high-stakes four-match T20I series. The Men in Blue, under the fresh leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, will fly to South Africa with renewed confidence, coming off a convincing whitewash of Bangladesh in this format. With their momentum high, India will look to keep the winning rhythm going.
South Africa, however, will be equally determined to turn things around, having last won a T20I series back in 2022. With the sting of their recent World Cup final loss fresh in their minds, the Proteas, led by experienced campaigners, are motivated to seek redemption on their home ground.
Kingsmead Pitch Report
The pitch at Kingsmead in Durban has traditionally favored bowlers, particularly seamers, due to its moisture content, which often provides early movement. In the initial overs, pacers can expect swing and seam, making the new ball critical for early breakthroughs. As the game progresses, the pitch tends to flatten out, offering more assistance to batters who can spend time at the crease. Batters who focus on rotating strikes and finding gaps may fare better than those attempting to go for big hits.
South Africa Playing 11
Ryan Rickelton, Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee, Ottneil Baartman, Andile Simelane
Squad: Aiden Markram (c), Ottneil Baartman, Gerald Coetzee, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Patrick Kruger, Keshav Maharaj, David Miller, Mihlali Mpongwana, Nqaba Peter, Ryan Rickelton, Andile Simelane, Lutho Sipamla (3rd and 4th T20Is), and Tristan Stubbs.
India Playing 11
Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Suryakumar Yadav (c), Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Yash Dayal, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan
Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ramandeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Avesh Khan, Yash Dayal.
SA vs IND Top Fantasy Picks
- Suryakumar Yadav (IND): Suryakumar’s explosive batting style and versatility make him a standout in T20s. With 2544 runs in 74 T20Is at an impressive strike rate of 169.49, including 4 centuries and 21 fifties, he can accelerate the innings and handle pressure with ease. He’s an excellent multiplier choice for this game.
- Hardik Pandya (IND): Known for his powerful hitting and all-round abilities, Hardik has contributed 1641 runs in 105 T20Is at a strike rate of 145.09 and has taken 87 wickets at an average of 276.01. His capacity to contribute in both departments makes him a critical player, especially as a finisher and a reliable option with the ball.
- Arshdeep Singh (IND): Arshdeep has quickly become a valuable asset with his skillful left-arm seam bowling. With 87 wickets in 56 T20Is at an average of 18.36, he’s particularly effective in the death overs. His variations and ability to bowl under pressure make him a vital pick for this encounter.
- Heinrich Klaasen (SA): Klaasen’s powerful batting has often been a game-changer for South Africa. In 52 T20Is, he has scored 912 runs at a strike rate of 142.72, with a high score of 81. His ability to play impactful innings and accelerate during the middle overs makes him a key figure in South Africa’s lineup.
- David Miller (SA): Known as one of the most dangerous finishers, Miller has 2439 runs in 125 T20Is at an impressive strike rate of 140.66. With his experience and capacity to chase or set big totals, he’s a crucial player for the Proteas and a strong multiplier pick for this game.
SA vs IND Dream11 Prediction
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SA vs IND head-to-head in T20I
South Africa and India have played 27 T20I matches against each other, with India holding the edge with 15 wins, while South Africa has managed 11 wins, and one game have ended without a result.
Where Can I Watch South Africa vs India T20I Series 2024?
You can catch the exciting South Africa vs India T20I series live for free on JioCinema if you’re in India. For TV viewers, the action will be on the Sports18 Channel.