With the Test and ODI series concluded, South Africa’s tour of India moves to its final phase — a five-match T20I series, starting Tuesday, December 9, in Cuttack. The series holds significant importance for both teams ahead of the T20 World Cup.

India, after a 0-2 Test defeat, bounced back to win the ODI series 2-1, showcasing resilience. Entering the T20Is, they are the reigning World Cup champions and the top-ranked side in the format. The team’s recent T20I form has been impressive, combining explosive batting with clever wrist-spin bowling. Abhishek Sharma provides intent at the top, while Hardik Pandya’s return strengthens both batting and bowling. Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakaravarthy are also back after being rested. Shubman Gill, India’s T20I vice-captain, returns after recovering from a neck spasm, and with his fitness confirmed, India is expected to field a similar XI to the Australia T20I series. Notably, Sanju Samson has been reportedly omitted from the starting lineup, with Jitesh Sharma preferred as wicketkeeper-batter.

South Africa, bruised from the ODI loss, will look to the T20Is with renewed focus. Aiden Markram resumes captaincy, supported by Quinton de Kock, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, and Tristan Stubbs in the batting lineup. Their all-rounders, including Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, George Linde, and Donovan Ferreira, provide depth and balance, making them a dangerous side in the shortest format.

Pitch report

Only three T20 matches have been held in Cuttack so far. Historically, the venue has favored batters, although the pitch tends to be slightly on the slower side. Dew could once again play a role prompting teams to prefer bowling first under such conditions.

Weather forecast

As it is an evening game, temperatures are expected to be on the cooler side (since it is winter) and will likely drop further as the night progresses.

Probable XIs

India: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Jitesh Sharma, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy

South Africa: Quinton de Kock(wk), Aiden Markram(c), David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, Donovan Ferreira, George Linde, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Anrich Nortje, Kwena Maphaka

When and where to watch

The India vs South Africa T20Is will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network and streamed live on JioHotstar, with the match scheduled to start at 7 PM on December 9. (With inputs from Agencies)