The Indian cricket team is all set to kick off its five-match T20 series against South Africa with the first match scheduled for December 9 at 7:00 PM. The match will be played at the historic Barabati Stadium. This series is being seen as an important preparation phase for both teams ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.

While South Africa will be focusing on gaining experience in Indian conditions, Team India will look to continue its strong momentum in the shortest format.

India’s Probable Playing XI

Team India will be led by Suryakumar Yadav, who has been in explosive form in T20 cricket. At the top of the order, Shubman Gill is expected to open alongside the aggressive Abhishek Sharma. Tilak Verma is almost certain to feature in the middle order.

Wicketkeeping duties will likely be handled by Jitesh Sharma. All-rounder Hardik Pandya is expected to make his return from injury, providing balance to the side. In the spin department, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav could play key roles, while Varun Chakravarthy may also be included. The pace attack is likely to be led by Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah.

India’s probable XI:
Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Tilak Verma, Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Jitesh Sharma (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah

South Africa’s Probable Playing XI

For South Africa, Quinton de Kock is expected to open the innings. He is likely to be partnered by Reeza Hendricks. Captain Aiden Markram and young batter Dewald Brevis are expected to anchor the middle order.

Power-hitters Donovan Ferreira and David Miller could strengthen the lower middle order. In bowling, Marco Jansen, Anrich Nortje, Corbin Bosch and Lungi Ngidi are expected to form the pace attack, while Keshav Maharaj will handle the spin duties.

South Africa’s probable XI:
Quinton de Kock (WK), Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram (Captain), Dewald Brevis, Donovan Ferreira, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Keshav Maharaj

Pitch Report: Who Will the Surface Favor?

The Barabati Stadium is hosting a T20 match after a long gap, with the last T20 played here back in June 2022. Historically, the pitch has offered good support to fast bowlers, especially in the early overs. Batting is expected to be challenging initially, while spinners may find assistance as the match progresses. Overall, bowlers are likely to have an edge in this contest.

Weather Update: Rain Unlikely to Play Spoilsport

Weather conditions in Cuttack are expected to remain pleasant during the match. The evening is likely to be slightly cloudy, with temperatures around 19°C. There is only a 10 percent chance of rain, making interruptions highly unlikely. Fans can expect a full game of cricket without major weather concerns.

Live Telecast and Streaming Details

The match will be broadcast live on the Star Sports network. For online and mobile streaming, fans can tune in via the JioHotstar app.