Team India will once again have a very tough game against South Africa in the 5-match T20I match series that will commence tomorrow, December 9, at the Barabati Stadium, Cuttack and excitement in the crowd is already at its rising point.
Following a brilliant 2-1 win in the ODI series, India now proceeds to the shortest format with a young dynamic team with a clear strategy.
This series will be one of the biggest tests to the leadership and aggressive style of play by India and Suryakumar Yadav, with the T20 World Cup 2026 approaching.
Proteas is a strong team, and a large number of Indian players appear to be prepared to handle the challenge. So here is a list of 5 such players who could create big trouble for the Proteas.
Top 5 Indian players who might trouble South African bowlers
Suryakumar Yadav
The Indian T20I skipper is still considered one of the most dangerous Indian T20 batters, and that fact alone puts him at the top of this list of players who might create problems for South Africa. Despite the fact that he had an inconsistent run in international cricket this year, his explosive IPL form, serves as a reminder of the kind of devastation he can inflict when he is allowed to settle down.
Abhishek Sharma
Abhishek Sharma is in this list because of the swashbuckling form that he has displayed all through 2025. He has been over the moon with the sixes he hit in domestic cricket and has almost 1,500 T20 runs this year at an unbelievable strike rate. His audacious hitting from the very first ball can easily throw South Africa’s fast bowlers off their game, particularly during the Powerplay.
Varun Chakaravarthy
Varun Chakaravarthy has emerged as a performer who stood out all year round, and that’s the very reason he has been included in this list of players. His mystery spin has been a problem even for the best teams, and his latest performances, especially the five-wicket hauls against England and South Africa, are proof of how dangerous he still is.
The 1st T20I match between India and South Africa will be played at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. The live coverage between India and South Africa can be watched on Star Sports Network (TV) and Hotstar (OTT).
Jasprit Bumrah
India’s premiem pacer, Jasprit Bumrah is all set to return after a good break. Bumrah will lead the bowling arsenal for Team India in the upcoming 5-match T20I series against the Proteas. With his lethal yorkers and death-over capabilities, Bumrah will be a treat to watch.
Hardik Pandya
The dashing all-rounder, Hardik Pandya is also set to return to the Indian side after recovered from an injury which he sustained during the Asia Cup 2025. Pandya’s presence in the middle-order and in the bowling would provide boost to the Indian side.
