The ongoing T20I series between South Africa and India has captivated cricket enthusiasts around the world. After India’s commanding victory in the first T20I, South Africa bounced back in the second match. Now, the stage for a thrilling third encounter is set.
As both teams prepare for the third match, fans eagerly anticipate a high-stakes showdown that could define the series outcome.
2nd T20I Review
The second T20I, held at St George’s Park in Gqeberha on November 10, 2024, was a low-scoring yet intensely competitive affair. India, batting first, posted a modest total of 124/6 in their allotted 20 overs.
Hardik Pandya top-scored with an unbeaten 39 off 45 balls, while Axar Patel contributed a quick 27 off 21 deliveries. South Africa’s bowlers maintained tight lines, with five bowlers picking up a wicket each.
In response, South Africa’s chase was fraught with challenges. Varun Chakravarthy’s exceptional bowling spell, where he took five wickets for just 17 runs, left the hosts at 66/6. However, a resilient partnership between Tristan Stubbs (47* off 41) and Gerald Coetzee (19* off 9) guided South Africa to a three-wicket victory with six balls to spare, levelling the series at 1-1.
3rd T20I Match Preview
The third and deciding T20I is scheduled for November 13, 2024, at SuperSport Park in Centurion. With the series tied, both teams will be eager to clinch the match and secure a lead in the series. India will aim to rectify their batting inconsistencies, while South Africa will look to build on their momentum from the second T20I.
Team News
India’s squad includes fresh talents like Ramandeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vyshak, and Yash Dayal, who have yet to debut in the series. The team management might consider giving these players an opportunity in this match.
South Africa, on the other hand, has welcomed back key players such as Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, and David Miller, bolstering their lineup. The hosts are likely to retain the winning combination from the second T20I.
Pitch and Weather Report
SuperSport Park is known for its batting-friendly surface, offering consistent bounce and carry. Historically, teams have posted competitive totals here, making it a venue that favours batters.
The weather forecast for November 13 indicates pleasant conditions with sunshine and a few clouds, a high of 31°C, and a low of 20°C, ensuring an uninterrupted game.
Probable Playing XI
India:
Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan/Vyshak Vijaykumar.
South Africa:
Ryan Rickelton, Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram (c), David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee, Nqabayomzi Peter, Ottneil Baartman.
Key Players
India:
Hardik Pandya: After getting out cheaply in the first T20I, Hardik Pandya remained unbeaten with 39 runs in the second T20I, anchoring the innings amidst a batting collapse. His all-round capabilities make him a crucial asset for India.
Varun Chakravarthy: He has been on fire in this series as he followed up his three wickets in the first T20I with a match-defining performance in the second T20I, claiming five wickets for 17 runs. His mystery spin poses a significant threat to South African batters.
South Africa:
Tristan Stubbs: Stubbs has been a revelation in the series. After a poor outing in the first T20I, he played a match-winning knock of 47* in the second game, showing his composure under pressure.
Gerald Coetzee: Coetzee’s all-round performance has been vital for South Africa. He bowled economically in both matches and played a crucial supporting role with the bat in the second T20I, scoring an unbeaten 19 to steer his team to victory.
Match Prediction
Given the momentum shift after the second T20I, South Africa appears to have the upper hand heading into the decider. However, India’s experience and the potential inclusion of fresh talents could tilt the balance. The match is poised to be closely contested, with both teams having equal chances of clinching the game.
