Durban, Dec 9: In a highly anticipated three-match T20 International series set to kick off on Sunday, a youthful Indian team is gearing up to face a formidable South African side. The upcoming matches pose challenging uncertainties for the Indian outfit, with critical players sidelined and the T20 World Cup looming on the horizon.
With captain Hardik Pandya ruled out until the start of the IPL, lead pacer Jasprit Bumrah on a break, and ambiguity surrounding the T20 future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma ahead of the World Cup in June, evaluating the team’s success or failure in South Africa becomes a complex task.
The clarity on India’s core T20 lineup is expected to emerge post the cash-rich IPL, where form and fitness will be the key criteria for selection. The inclusion of Rohit and Virat in the playing XI could significantly alter the team dynamics currently on tour in the ‘Rainbow Nation.’
Suryakumar Yadav led his side to a convincing 4-1 victory over Australia on home soil, but the series held within 72 hours of the World Cup had limited stakes. The South Africa series, being the last major international T20 series before facing Afghanistan in mid-January, holds more significance.
Despite South Africa missing key pace bowlers Kagiso Rabada (rested) and the injured Anrich Nortje and Lungi Ngidi, the Proteas at home present a formidable challenge. The team faces multiple dilemmas, especially in the opener and No. 3 positions.
Players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill have showcased their abilities, while Ruturaj Gaikwad’s impressive 52-ball century makes him hard to ignore. However, the problem arises when Ishan Kishan is not an ideal option beyond No. 4 if Jaiswal, Gill, and Gaikwad are in the top order.The wicketkeeper’s slot is another area of contention, with Kishan and Jitesh Sharma vying for the spot at No. 6. Suryakumar Yadav holds the crucial No. 4 position, and decisions regarding the batting order become even more intricate. (Agencies)
