Overview:
Shubman Gill, having received medical clearance from the CoE just a few days earlier, is expected to open the innings alongside Abhishek Sharma.
As India moves closer to finalizing their preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup, the next big challenge arrives in the form of a five-match T20I clash against South Africa, beginning on December 9. Suryakumar Yadav’s squad will hope to keep their winning rhythm intact, especially after coming out on top with a 2–1 series result against Australia in their latest T20 campaign.
India have experimented heavily with both their lineup and batting order in recent matches. This upcoming series will serve as one of the last major opportunities for the team to lock in their best combination ahead of the grand T20 World Cup stage.
A recent report from the Times of India (December 4) suggests that a red-soil surface is being prepared for the match. Such pitches typically benefit fast bowlers due to the extra pace and bounce they generate. With that in mind, India could lean towards selecting Shivam Dube over Washington Sundar. Hardik Pandya’s return also strengthens this plan, as his presence not only deepens the batting lineup but also adds another reliable seam-bowling option for the team.
If this approach is followed, Kuldeep Yadav would likely be India’s lone primary spinner, especially given his impressive form on home soil. Although Tilak Varma can chip in with some part-time spin, his usage may depend on the match conditions and when India gets to bowl. Considering how well Kuldeep performed in the recent ODIs, keeping him in the XI looks like a wiser option than going with Varun Chakravarthy.
Shubman Gill, having received medical clearance from the CoE just a few days earlier, is expected to open the innings alongside Abhishek Sharma. This setup keeps Sanju Samson positioned in the middle-order. As for the fast-bowling unit, Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh will head the pace attack, with additional support coming from Hardik and Dube, while Harshit Rana can also contribute with his medium pace if needed.
India’s Probable XI For 1st T20I against South Africa: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Washington Sundar / Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson (WK), Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah.