IND vs SA 1st T20 Match Preview, Prediction, Playing11, Pitch and Weather Report

IND vs SA 1st T20 Match Preview – The focus shifts to the explosive T20 format as India and South Africa clash in the first of a five-match T20I series at the Barabati Stadium on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. Following a hard-fought ODI series victory for the hosts, India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, will look to maintain their winning momentum against an ever-dangerous South African side, captained by Aiden Markram.

This series opener is particularly crucial as India begins its preparation phase ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup. The home team is boosted by the return of key all-rounder Hardik Pandya and fast-bowler Jasprit Bumrah, both of whom missed the preceding ODI series. South Africa, seeking to bounce back from a recent T20I loss to Pakistan, will be strengthened by the return of the formidable Anrich Nortje.

IND vs SA 1st T20 Match Details

IND vs SA 1st T20 Head-to-Head

India holds a clear advantage over South Africa in the T20I format.

Notably, South Africa has won both previous T20I matches played against India at the Barabati Stadium.

IND vs SA 1st T20 Pitch Report: Barabati Stadium

The pitch at Barabati Stadium has undergone a significant change for this series, with a red-soil surface being used for the first time in the venue’s history.

• Characteristics: Red soil pitches are expected to offer more pace and bounce, making strokeplay easier for the batters and ensuring good carry for the fast bowlers. The surface is anticipated to be true and quick, promising a high-scoring contest, similar to conditions at the Wankhede Stadium.

• Historical Data: While the traditional average first innings score was 140, the new red-soil pitch is expected to push the safe score closer to 200.

• Toss Factor: Given the short boundaries and the likelihood of dew later in the evening (being near the Mahanadi River), the captain winning the toss is expected to opt to bowl first.

IND vs SA 1st T20 Weather Report

The weather in Cuttack for the match day, Tuesday, December 9, is expected to be clear, ensuring a full game.

• Temperature: The high temperature is forecast to be 27°C and the low 15°C.

• Rain: The chance of precipitation during the night is only 10%.

• Conditions: The evening will be cloudy with a gentle breeze from the north.

IND vs SA 1st T20 Probable Playing11

Both teams will seek a balanced line-up, integrating returning veterans with in-form youngsters.

Note: There is speculation regarding Sanju Samson vs. Jitesh Sharma for the wicket-keeper slot, with Jitesh being tipped to get the opportunity. Harshit Rana is also in contention to feature in the bowling attack.

IND vs SA 1st T20 Match Prediction

India enters the series as the statistical favorite, holding an 18-12 advantage in T20Is. The home team’s batting is formidable, led by Suryakumar Yadav and the in-form Abhishek Sharma, who has been India’s best T20I batter this year with 756 runs.

South Africa, however, possesses key players who thrive against India: David Miller is the highest T20I run-scorer in this fixture (524 runs), and Quinton de Kock also has a stellar record against the Men in Blue. The Proteas also have the psychological advantage at the Barabati Stadium, having won both previous T20Is played here.

Given the pace-friendly red-soil pitch, the return of Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya gives India a substantial boost in bowling firepower. Coupled with home conditions and recent winning form, India is likely to have a strong start to the series.

Prediction: India to win.