India Probable Playing XI For First T20I Against South Africa: In the first T20 International match against South Africa, the Indian team can field these 11 stalwarts.

India vs South Africa, 1st T20I: The excitement of Tests and ODIs has ended. Now, cricket fans will witness the thrill of a five-match T20 International series between India and South Africa, starting December 9, 2025. Both teams are ready for the upcoming series. The first match of the prestigious series will be played on December 9 at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. The Indian team will aim to win this match and start the series on a high note. Before that, let's discuss the strengths of the Indian team in Cuttack. These could be:

Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill will open the innings.

If Shubman Gill is fully fit, he is confirmed to join Abhishek Sharma. In the last few matches, these two players have opened the Indian innings in the T20 format. The team's performance has been commendable during this period. Abhishek puts pressure on the opposition bowlers from the very beginning, while Gill maintains a composed approach to the innings.

These stalwarts will be in charge of the middle order

The middle order will be led by captain Suryakumar Yadav, along with Tilak Verma and Jitesh Sharma. Surya's form is currently on the wane, but everyone is well aware of his explosive batting. Meanwhile, young Tilak is consistently contributing significantly to the team's victories. Jitesh hasn't had a significant opportunity to shine at the international level, but he has showcased his abilities in the IPL.

The Indian team can enter the field with 3 all-rounders.

In the first T20I, the Indian team is expected to field three all-rounders, including Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Axar Patel. All three players are adept at changing the course of a match with both the bat and the ball.

They will be responsible for bowling

Two key fast bowlers could be included in the team. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh appear to be confirmed. Varun Chakravarthy could also be considered as the main spinner. Chakravarthy has performed exceptionally well as a spinner in recent times.

Probable playing XI of the Indian team for the first T20 match

Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Tilak Verma, Jitesh Sharma (wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dubey, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakraborty.

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