India (IND) and South Africa (SA) will face each other in the second T20I of the five-match series at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, Chandigarh, on Thursday, December 11. After a dominant win in the first match, India will look to increase their lead in the series.

South Africa had a miserable outing in the opening T20I in Cuttack, getting bowled out for their lowest-ever total of 74 to give India a massive 101-run victory.  Hardik Pandya made a strong comeback with an unbeaten 59 off 28 balls, helping India reach 175/6. India had an early setback with the dismissals of Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill, but Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Axar Patel steadied the innings before Pandya’s late fireworks.

South Africa's chase never looked comfortable. Arshdeep Singh struck early by removing Quinton de Kock and Tristan Stubbs. Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Shivam Dube also picked up wickets. Apart from Dewald Brevis’ 22, no batter stayed long, and the visitors were bowled out in just 12.3 overs.

IND vs SA: Head-to-Head Record in T20Is

• Matches Played: 32
  
• Won by India: 19
  
• Won by South Africa: 12
  
• No Result / Tied: 1

IND vs SA: Pitch Report

The pitch in Mullanpur offers a balanced contest between bat and ball. Batters can easily score early on due to the fast outfield. As the innings progresses, spinners get more help, especially in the second half. Overall, this venue slightly favors batters, but bowlers who use variations can also succeed.

See Also: PCB clears rape allegation to lift ban on Pakistan star ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

IND vs SA: Predicted Playing XIs

India (IND):

Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh

South Africa (SA):

Quinton de Kock (wk), Aiden Markram (c), Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Donovan Ferreira, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje

India (IND) will face South Africa (SA) in the 1st T20I of the series at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack on Tuesday, December 9. This match is a repeat of the T20 World Cup 2024 final, adding extra excitement to the contest. The all-format tour is in its final stage—South Africa won the Test series, while India claimed the ODI series.

India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, are in excellent form. They recently won the Asia Cup 2025 and also defeated Australia in their own backyard. With the 2026 T20 World Cup not far away, India will aim at carrying on their momentum and make a winning start to the T20I series in Cuttack.

South Africa, however, have been struggling in T20Is lately. They lost their recent series 1–2 against Pakistan and even suffered a shock defeat to Namibia in a one-off match. They also drew a series against England. The Proteas will be desperate to find some rhythm and bounce back in this important series.

IND vs SA: Head-to-Head Record in T20Is

• Matches Played: 31
  
• India Won: 18
  
• South Africa Won: 12
  
• Tied / No Result: 1

IND vs SA: Pitch Report

The Barabati Stadium has hosted three T20Is so far, and South Africa have won both matches they played here. Teams chasing have won two out of three games here, and bowling first could be a smart choice. The pitch does offer help to both pacers and spinners, but bowlers with good variations usually do the work. A score around 160 can be competitive on this ground because dew may not allow the ball to grip much.

See Also: IND vs SA 1st T20I: Suryakumar Yadav confirms Gill and Abhishek as openers, Samson’s role uncertain

IND vs SA: Predicted Playing XIs

India (IND):

Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah

South Africa (SA):

Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Donovan Ferreira, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi

Fast bowler Anrich Nortje is all set to don South Africa colours again as he has been named in the T20I squad for the upcoming tour of India. The Proteas speedster last featured for his nation in the 2024 T20 World Cup final, before a recurring stress-fracture injury forced him to the sidelines. His recent performances for Dolphins in the ongoing T20 Challenge – where he has already climbed into the top 10 wicket-takers – have convinced selectors that he is ready for international action again.

The tour begins after the conclusion of the current Test series in India, where South Africa have already taken a 1-0 lead following their victory in Kolkata. The ODI series will act as a bridge between Tests and T20Is, providing crucial game time to several players who are in early contention for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Proteas finalize white-ball blueprint ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

Temba Bavuma returns to captain the ODI side after missing the Pakistan series due to injury. The selectors have opted for continuity, retaining debutant Rubin Hermann while leaving out Tristan Stubbs from the 50-over squad. Lhuan-dre Pretorius also misses out, with the top-order already stacked with options.

In the T20I squad, Aiden Markram takes over captaincy and will have a strong group around him as South Africa look to identify the right combinations ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Quinton de Kock is back and eager to regain T20I form despite a mixed run since his comeback. Reeza Hendricks also returns, which means Ryan Rickelton will have to wait to know his World Cup fate.

ALSO SEE: Watch: Ben Stokes celebrates 5/23 during opening Ashes 2025/26 Test in Perth

Meanwhile, David Miller’s inclusion strengthens the middle-order, and Dewald Brevis is set for more opportunities after recovering from a minor muscle injury.

South Africa believe this tour will be a significant step in solidifying their white-ball roadmap under head coach Shukri Conrad, who emphasized the importance of building depth and role clarity across both formats.

South Africa squads for India tour

ODIs: Temba Bavuma (C), Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Rubin Hermann, Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen, Aiden Markram, Lungi Ngidi, Ryan Rickelton, Prenelan Subrayen.

T20Is: Aiden Markram (C), Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Tristan Stubbs.

South Africa have been dealt a major blow ahead of the second Test against India, with pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada officially ruled out of the contest in Guwahati. The match, which begins on November 22 at the Barsapara Stadium, marks the venue’s debut in the Test arena and comes with the series intriguingly poised after the Proteas’ strong win in Kolkata.

Rabada had already missed the opening Test due to a rib injury sustained during a training session. While South Africa managed to clinch victory without him, his absence remains significant given his experience and strike power in challenging conditions. He also skipped South Africa’s practice session on Thursday, raising early concerns around his fitness.

Captain Temba Bavuma put an end to any speculation during the pre-match press conference, confirming that Rabada would play no further role in the ongoing tour. “Kagiso has been ruled out of the second Test,” Bavuma said, citing the medical team’s decision to avoid any unnecessary risk with the fast bowler’s recovery. “He will continue the initial phase of his rehabilitation before returning home.”

Bavuma weighs spin-friendly pitch tactics as Rabada heads home injured

Cricket South Africa issued a statement explaining that Rabada will undergo a four-week recovery program while being monitored by the Proteas medical staff. He will travel back to South Africa after the conclusion of the second Test.

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With the teams heading to a completely new Test venue, Bavuma also shared insights about the surface in Guwahati. He noted that it carries typical subcontinental characteristics, where batting conditions should be at their best in the early stages before spinners begin to dominate. “This wicket looks a lot fresher and will be more consistent in terms of variability compared to Kolkata,” he said. “We’ll take another look in the morning before finalizing his replacement.”

As South Africa prepare to adjust their bowling combination once again, India will be eager to bounce back after a disappointing opening Test. The untested nature of the Barsapara pitch and the stakes of the series add further intrigue to what promises to be a compelling and historic contest.

The Indian cricket team landed in Guwahati on Wednesday, hoping to put behind the disappointment of their loss in the opening Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens. The second and final Test of the series will be historic, marking the first-ever Test match at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Assam. But India’s preparation has been overshadowed by skipper Shubman Gill’s injury setback, which has left the top order looking vulnerable.

Gill injured his neck while batting on Day 2 in Kolkata and was unable to take the field thereafter. He did not bat in India’s second innings either, as the hosts crumbled in a chase of 124, handing South Africa a rare victory on Indian soil. The defeat hurt India’s proud home record and exposed gaps in their batting, now further stretched with Gill’s unavailability.

A video of India’s arrival in Guwahati surfaced on social media with Gill seen without a neck brace but still struggling to move his head comfortably. According to reports from the Indian Express, the 26-year-old has been ruled out of the Guwahati Test beginning Saturday. Vice-captain Rishabh Pant will step up to lead the side, while young left-hander Sai Sudharsan is likely to be drafted into the playing XI.

ALSO SEE: IND vs SA 2025 ODI series: Will Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah be available?

Pressure on Middle Order as India Eye Redemption After Eden Gardens Setback

The BCCI issued a statement confirming that Gill is recovering well but will continue to be monitored by the medical team. “A decision on his participation in the 2nd Test will be taken accordingly,” the board had initially stated, but the latest update suggests India will not risk their captain as the injury remains sensitive.

India now face a must-win situation to level the short series. With home pride at stake and several batting concerns to address, Rohit Sharma’s absence and Gill’s injury leave a heavy responsibility on the middle order. The team had an optional training session with Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Akash Deep and Devdutt Padikkal among those who hit the nets.

Play will begin at 9 a.m. on all five days, with a unique twist in scheduling, tea will be taken before lunch for the first time in Test cricket history. India will hope the change brings a spark as they seek redemption in Guwahati.

The South Africans pulled off a stunning 30-run win over India in a low-scoring thriller at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. Chasing a modest target of 124 runs, India witnessed a dramatic batting collapse and were bowled out for just 93 on the third day. This was also South Africa's first Test triumph on Indian soil in 15 years.

But the match kept on being closely fought from the very beginning as momentum kept shifting. South Africa, after winning the toss, batted first but were bowled out for 159. Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah came up with an excellent spell of 5/27 to give the hosts early control in the game. India replied with 189 in the first innings, managing to take a slender 30-run lead, with KL Rahul's composed 39 the highest score. Offspinner Simon Harmer was the standout performer for South Africa with 4/30.

Temba Bavuma played an unbeaten captain's knock of 55 to ensure stiff resistance for South Africa in the third innings. Eventually, the visitors got bowled out for 153, setting India a target of 124. However, India’s chase fell apart quickly as wickets tumbled one after another, struggling against the accuracy and turn produced by the South African spinners, especially Harmer, who picked four more wickets for just 21 runs.

Simon Harmer’s 8 wickets in the match helped South Africa win the game

The win for South Africa showed their fightback, having lost the first innings by 30 runs before they chased down a small target. Simon Harmer was the star of the match, ending with superb match figures of 8 wickets and taking apart India's batting in both innings. Adding to the woes, Indian skipper Shubman Gill retired hurt to a neck injury while batting in the first innings, which meant they were one batter short in the second innings. 

See Also: IND vs SA: BCCI's latest update on Shubman Gill’s neck injury after hospitalisation in Kolkata test

Washington Sundar showed some fight with a 31-run knock. For South Africa, Bavuma was the only one to bat well in the second innings to help get their team over 100. While Ravindra Jadeja took four wickets on Day 2, Kuldeep Yadav also took a couple of important wickets. but India couldn’t handle the pressure as South Africa completed a memorable win inside three days and now leads the series 1-0.

Fans reacted to India’s 30-run loss in the Kolkata Test by sharing funny memes on X (Twitter). Here are some of the best memes:

From sledging to hugging on your defeat 💀👀

#SouthAfrica pic.twitter.com/GdzUWj28Ks

— Sarcasm (@sarcastic_us) November 16, 2025

ICT fans after seeing the team is losing even the easy matches now.#INDvsSA pic.twitter.com/EbHor82iI3

— Sarcasm (@sarcastic_us) November 16, 2025

South Africa beat India by 30 runs to go 1-0 up in the series

Erippuk @GautamGambhir#INDvsSA pic.twitter.com/zbBQozqJhr

— 𝓜𝓲𝓬𝓱𝓪𝑒𝓵  (@Rolex8170) November 16, 2025

GG era 🥲After 15 years we lost to SA in India and not able to chase the low target 😭

#INDvsSA pic.twitter.com/Uwp8MkZLco

— V I P E R (@VIPERoffl) November 16, 2025

- Lost NZ series and put all the blame on Rohit Sharma
- Lost Sl series
- Lost BGT
- Lost ODI Series vs Aus
- Played politics with Rohit and virat and silently diverted all the hate towards gill &
- Today after 15 years SA won a match lm indian soil

Ruined my beautiful ICT 💔. pic.twitter.com/HDx3wy6zbb

— Roesque (@LVR_HYPER09) November 16, 2025

Temba Bavuma after beating India :#INDvsSA pic.twitter.com/X3SSxHgUvN

— 🅰️ J (@EHuman0) November 16, 2025

south africa didn't beat india - karma did. pic.twitter.com/ROns4F1ANW

— desi sigma (@desisigma) November 16, 2025

What will be your next excuse for this never ending defeat series 🧐😒

#INDvsSA pic.twitter.com/ZZ7RuGVQ5E

— Sarcasm (@sarcastic_us) November 16, 2025

Bavuma gets the final laugh

What a game, and what a captain’s knock.

Give the man his due

South Africa won test in india after 15 years #INDvSA #INDvsSApic.twitter.com/Yfj8VXH2eG

— Ash (@Ashsay_) November 16, 2025

They trolled him for his height
Action speaks Louder than Words🔥.

Team India failed to chase 123 against South Africa! 🤯🥶

#INDvsSA pic.twitter.com/PU6RXkGgCH

— ALii ツ (@ALii__313) November 16, 2025

Hosts India started the Kolkata Test strongly, as they bundled out South Africa for only 159 runs, as the Proteas recorded their lowest first innings total in India. 

After South Africa chose to bat first, they had a good opening partnership of 57 runs, but once that partnership was broken, the visitors found themselves very hard position. South Africa were bundled out for only 159 runs, while the opener Aiden Markram (31) was their only batter to reach the 30-run mark. Although there were three more Proteas batters to score 20s, all of them failed to capitalise on their starts.

While the Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah recorded a fifer (5/27), Kuldeep Yadav (2/36) and Mohammed Siraj (2/47) bagged two wickets each, and Axar Patel (1/21) had one wicket.

The 159 all out became the new lowest total for South Africa in the first innings of a Test match in India and Asia. Meanwhile, the latest innings was also their second-lowest completed total in the first innings of a Test match against India. 

WATCH: Mohamad Siraj’s double-wicket over gives South Africa body blow in IND vs SA 1st Test in Kolkata

South Africa's lowest completed Test totals in the 1st innings in Asia

South Africa's lowest completed totals in the 1st innings vs India in Test cricket

On the other hand, South Africa's 159 all out also became the fourth lowest completed total in the first innings of a Test match in India since 2020.

Lowest 1st innings Test total in India since 2020

Legendary South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes has expressed concern over the poor air quality in Delhi, which has once again reached dangerous levels. As the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city dropped into the ‘severe’ category, Rhodes joined several citizens and public figures who are worried about the pollution problem. He compared Delhi’s smog-filled skies to the clean and fresh air of Goa, where he currently lives, pointing out how serious the situation has become.

Heavy pollution caused by incidents of stubble burning, smoke emanating from moving vehicles, and the prevailing still weather conditions marks every winter in Delhi. This year, the air quality in large parts of the city crossed 400 AQI, which falls within the extremely unhealthy category. The thick layer of smog has made it difficult for people to step outside and has raised major health concerns. Many residents are once again calling for long-term environmental action from the government.

Sharing his concern on social media, Rhodes wrote on X, “Passing through Delhi en route to Ranchi this evening, and as always, it’s hard to digest the low levels of air quality here. Am grateful to be living in a small fishing village in South Goa.” His post drew attention from thousands of fans, many of whom agreed with his observation and shared their own experiences of Delhi’s worsening pollution.

Jonty Rhodes Compares Delhi Smog to Goa’s Fresh Air

In another post, Rhodes shared a picture of his children playing football in Goa, writing, “This is what my ‘home’ sunsets look like, and yes, those are my kids playing football! In Delhi they suggest staying indoors.” His message highlighted how the difference in air quality affects daily life. Having spent many years in India, Rhodes said he worries about how pollution impacts families, children, and outdoor living.

Passing through Delhi en route to Ranchi this evening, and as always, it’s hard to digest the low levels of air quality here. Am grateful to be living in a small fishing village in South Goa ##AQI #whats2Bdone pic.twitter.com/3ctZELJmRN

— Jonty Rhodes (@JontyRhodes8) November 9, 2025

See Also: Delhi Capitals all-rounder files FIR after receiving international blackmail threats

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s AQI was 354 on Monday morning, rated as “very poor.” Areas like Anand Vihar, ITO, and Chandni Chowk reported AQI readings close to 370. Although there was a slight improvement on Sunday evening, experts from the IMD and IITM warned that pollution will likely stay in the “very poor” category. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) said that Stage 3 restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) are not being enforced yet as there are some signs of improvement.

South African leg-spinner Imran Tahir is all set to bring his magic to Nepal as he joins Janakpur Bolts for the 2025 season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL). The announcement, made by the Dream Sports-owned franchise, has created huge excitement among cricket fans ahead of the tournament starting on November 17, 2025, at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur.

At 46 years old, Tahir’s signing adds world-class experience and flair to the defending champions, who are aiming to retain their NPL title. Despite his age, the veteran spinner continues to perform at a high level in franchise cricket across the world. Known for his trademark celebrations and never-ending passion for the game, Tahir’s presence will not only strengthen Janakpur’s bowling attack but also inspire the young players in the squad.

Born in Lahore, Pakistan, Tahir’s cricket journey is nothing short of remarkable. After playing domestic cricket in Pakistan and county cricket in England, he moved to South Africa, where his international career took off. Making his ODI debut in 2011 at the age of 31, he went on to become one of the most successful white-ball spinners of his generation.

Imran Tahir’s signing strengthens Janakpur Bolts as they gear up to defend their Nepal Premier League title in 2025

Tahir’s international numbers speak for themselves, 57 wickets in 20 Tests, 173 in 107 ODIs, and 63 in 38 T20Is for South Africa. His consistency and skill earned him the No. 1 ranking in both ODIs and T20Is in 2017. Even after retiring from international cricket in 2019, he remains one of the most sought-after players in T20 leagues worldwide, with 570 wickets in 446 T20 matches to his name.

ALSO SEE: T20 World Cup 2026 to start on this date as renowned IPL venues to host semifinal and final

For Janakpur Bolts, Tahir’s signing is a statement of intent. With players like Anil Sah, Lalit Rajbanshi, Sompal Kami, and Gulshan Jha already in the mix, the addition of Tahir gives them a perfect blend of youth and experience. The NPL 2025 promises to be a bigger and more competitive event, with global stars such as Faf du Plessis, Chris Lynn, and Rashid Khan also expected to feature.

Speaking on his new challenge, Tahir said, “Playing in Nepal is exciting, the passion here reminds me of my early days. I’m looking forward to helping Janakpur Bolts defend their title and to being part of Nepal’s cricket journey.”

As Janakpur Bolts prepare for their title defense, Tahir’s experience and mastery of spin could be the difference between victory and defeat. His arrival doesn’t just boost Janakpur, it elevates the entire Nepal Premier League to a new level of international recognition.

Quinton de Kock’s surprising return to South Africa’s white-ball setup has generated a fresh discussion about chances of him being included in the T20 World Cup 2026 group. He recently announced his retirement from ODIs following the 2023 World Cup and took a step back from T20Is post the 2024 World Cup Final, but the veteran wicketkeeper-batter has now made the decision to represent the Proteas again. He may have reaffirmed his commitment to his country through his decision, but South Africa’s selection panel have also clarified that experience alone will not guarantee a spot for him; form, fitness, and consistency will be key factors.  

De Kock's 32 years old now so let's see if he can make the adjustment back into a much-changed South African squad built on competition, youth, and accountability. Head Coach Shukri Conrad has already made it clear that de Kock will need to perform leading up to T20 World Cup 2026, with the next 14 T20Is regarded as the opportunity for him to do just that. despite his track record of success and inherent match-winning qualities, his recent game performances have been poor and other questions persist about whether he is fit and prepared to return to the player in February. He will have a labour on his hands if he wishes to maintain his place in the South African set up over the next few months.

See Also: WATCH: Harmanpreet Kaur's father lifts her like small child in joy after winning Women's World Cup 2025

Quinton de Kock: Opening Slot & Selectors’ Dilemma

The most significant obstacle de Kock faces is recovering the opening position, which is currently held by in-form pair Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton. The selection panel is set on retaining this combination of openers, meaning that de Kock must fight to regain a position he once called his own. Despite a well-known record as a top-order batter, de Kock has not performed as expected in recent T20 leagues and tournaments. The players who are picked will be influenced by his ability to adapt to new environments and execute his form.

De Kock's return does not only offer us a chance to consider his individual form and fitness level, but it also raises broader considerations regarding South Africa's longer-term plans. The team management is moving slowly and tenderly toward a younger cohort of players, in anticipation of the 2027 ODI World Cup. Thus they consider the balance between experience and the future. When we factor in the value of de Kock's leadership, experience and big-match temperament, the question remains - does he still fit in the structure of the evolving team, and can he execute consistency as well as proven fitness to fit the demands. The Proteas now want to put together a flexible, future-looking squad which can develop sustainable success.

To sum up, Quinton de Kock is not guaranteed a spot in the South African T20 squad for World Cup 2026. He has returned to show he still has something to offer at the top level of international T20. To earn his place, de Kock will need to show he still has the touch to be impactful, and that he is still able to work within whatever the team re-establishes as its rhythm and needs to be consistent enough. The next few months will be de Kock's audition — one that will test not just skill but desire and willingness to be part of the national teams recovery.