India vs South Africa Predicted Playing XI 1st T20I: Team India has arrived in Odisha ahead of the first T20I against South Africa, scheduled for December 9 at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack. Following a 2-1 ODI series win over the Proteas, India will aim to kick off the T20I series on a high note. This five-match series also gives the team management a chance to assess bench strength ahead of next year’s ICC T20 World Cup at home. India are slated to play ten games before the tournament, five each against South Africa and New Zealand, offering ample opportunities to finalise the 15-member squad.
Gill and Pandya Return to Bolster Line-Up
The series marks the return of Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya, who had been sidelined due to injuries. Pandya missed action after injuring his quadriceps during the Asia Cup 2025, while Gill’s neck injury ruled him out of the Test and ODI series against South Africa. Gill cleared a fitness test at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and is expected to open alongside Abhishek Sharma. Captain Suryakumar Yadav will bat at no. 3, with Tilak Varma at no. 4.
India’s Balanced Playing XI for Cuttack
Sanju Samson is likely to bat at no. 5, with Hardik Pandya at no. 6 to provide firepower. Axar Patel strengthens the line-up as an all-rounder. Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy will lead the spin department, while Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh spearhead the pace attack. The team’s combination of experienced players and young talent makes India a strong contender for the series opener.
India’s Likely Playing XI for 1st T20I vs South Africa
Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh