After clinching the ODI series and recovering from the Test series setback, india now switches gears to T20I cricket. With the 2026 t20 World Cup on the horizon, this five-match series against South Africa becomes a crucial testing ground.

Here’s a breakdown of India’s likely playing XI for the opening T20I — featuring big comebacks, surprising omissions, and tactical calls!

1️⃣ Shubman Gill Returns to the XI

With india looking to stabilize the top order, Shubman Gill is set to walk back into the T20I side after missing earlier games. His class and consistency make him a strong contender for the opener’s slot.

2️⃣ Yashasvi jaiswal to Open?

Explosive young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal is expected to partner Gill. His aggressive style provides the perfect contrast to Gill’s calmness.

3️⃣ No sanju samson in the XI

Despite being in good touch, Sanju Samson is likely to miss out once again. Team management appears to be prioritizing other combinations and roles for this series.

4️⃣ Ruturaj Gaikwad Perfect for No. 3

The in-form Ruturaj Gaikwad is the frontrunner for the No. 3 spot, offering both fluency and composure — ideal for both powerplay recovery and middle-overs anchoring.

5️⃣ Suryakumar Yadav – The t20 Beast

There’s no T20I XI without him. Suryakumar Yadav, the world’s No. 1 t20 batter, will slot in at No. 4 and drive the innings with his trademark 360-degree fireworks.

6️⃣ Rishabh pant as Wicketkeeper

Fully fit and in good touch, Rishabh Pant is expected to take charge behind the stumps. His presence in the middle order adds explosiveness and balance.

7️⃣ Hardik Pandya’s All-Round Value

If fit, Hardik Pandya resumes his role as the key all-rounder and death overs hitter. His overs in the middle and late stages remain vital.

8️⃣ Ravindra Jadeja’s All-Round Stability

Ravindra Jadeja brings balance with his tight left-arm spin, quick fielding, and handy lower-order hitting.

9️⃣ Washington Sundar / Axar patel – Spin Partner

Depending on pitch conditions:

· Washington Sundar adds powerplay bowling + batting stability

· Axar Patel offers better hitting at No. 7/8 and tight middle-overs bowling

One of them is likely to feature.

🔟 Arshdeep Singh Out!

One of the headline updates: Arshdeep Singh is likely to be left out for the opening game, as the team looks to test other pacers or combinations.

1️⃣1️⃣ Jasprit bumrah Leads the Pace Attack

The spearhead of India’s bowling, Jasprit Bumrah, is expected to return to the XI to lead the attack — crucial ahead of t20 world cup preparations.

1️⃣2️⃣ Mohammed Siraj Likely to Start

In the absence of Arshdeep, Siraj is the preferred second pacer. His new-ball swing and improved death bowling make him a strong choice.

🔮 India’s Likely XI for 1st T20I vs South Africa

1. Shubman Gill

2. Yashasvi Jaiswal

3. Ruturaj Gaikwad

4. Suryakumar Yadav

5. Rishabh pant (wk)

6. Hardik Pandya

7. Ravindra Jadeja

8. Washington Sundar / Axar Patel

9. Jasprit Bumrah

10. Mohammed Siraj

11. Kuldeep Yadav / ravi Bishnoi

 

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