India vs South Africa Match Prediction: Who will win the 1st T20I match?
Will South Africa still have memories of when they needed 30 runs off 30 balls with six wickets in hand in the final of the 2024 T20 World Cup against India? The answer is likely yes, although the likes of Quinton de Kock and Anrich Nortje aren't in the mix at present.
The scars of that defeat will probably still be fresh for much of the Proteas' squad as they gear up to take on India in four T20Is, with the opening game is set for Friday, November 8, in Durban. Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller, who perhaps would've been more hit by the loss than anyone else in the side, might not find it easy to move on.
But they will have to. The next edition of the T20 World Cup is a year and a half away, and life moves quickly in international cricket. South Africa, like all other teams who have been in their position before, will be keen on having an eye on the future.
With that in mind, the hosts have named a squad teeming with youthful exuberance and veteran experience in equal measure. The same goes for India, who could hand out a few debuts themselves for the series. It must be said that the visitors, in general, aren't in a great run of form right now.
Both teams have a lot to play for, but only one can come out on top on Friday. Who will it be?
IND vs SA 2024: Power-packed batting units clash in Durban
Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson will have their task cut out for them in the powerplay. While Durban is a high-scoring venue and should play into their shot-making intent, the duo will need to be wary of the extra pace and bounce. It might not be objectively a lot for South African conditions, but it will certainly be a long way off subcontinental wickets.
Meanwhile, South Africa, whose middle order is packed with big hitters, will want to take the attack to a slightly inexperienced Indian bowling attack. Avesh Khan will need to step up and support Arshdeep Singh, who has been on a roll in T20s in 2024.
On the whole, this game is too close to call. South Africa are arguably the favorites for this encounter on paper, given their obvious batting might and knowledge of the home conditions, but Suryakumar Yadav's India have played some decent T20 cricket lately.
While only time has the answers to the question of who will win, India might just start the series on a positive note.
Prediction: India to win the 1st T20I vs South Africa.