Team India T20I squad against SA: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced India’s squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa, beginning December 9 in Cuttack. And once again, it’s Suryakumar Yadav who’ll be leading the charge.
Cuttack to host 1st T20I
The series opener at the Barabati Stadium promises a lively start, a venue known for its electric crowds and conditions that often assist spinners. The action-packed tour will wrap up at the massive Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where fans are used to high-scoring blockbusters under lights.
Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya back in team
One of the biggest positives for India is the return of Shubman Gill. The young opener has recovered from the neck injury that kept him out of the Test series and will step in as Surya’s deputy for the T20Is. Hardik Pandya also makes a much-awaited comeback, giving India a major boost in the all-rounder department.
Sanju Samson, too, returns to the shortest format, adding depth and flair to India’s middle order.
Rinku Singh omitted
From a squad standpoint, there’s a strong sense of continuity, the core remains nearly identical to the group that clinched a memorable series win in Australia. The only notable omission is Rinku Singh, who finds himself left out for this tour.
On the other hand, Abhishek Sharma’s rise continues. He’s been nothing short of impressive for India recently, and his inclusion is another vote of confidence in his explosive abilities up top.
Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav headline the spin department, offering a mix of mystery and control. Meanwhile, Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh will pair up with Jasprit Bumrah in the pace unit, giving India a balanced bowling attack for conditions expected in South Africa.
With fresh energy, returning stars, and a captain in blazing form, India will be eyeing a strong statement as their T20I roadmap for 2026 continues to take shape.
Team India squad for South Africa T20I series
Suryakumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar
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