IND vs SA, 1st T20I - Match Prediction: Who will win today's match?

After having a disappointing 2022 T20 Asia Cup, team India made a strong comeback in the T20 format as they defeated the world champions Australia in a thrilling three-match series. The Men in Blue will now face another tough opponents in form of South Africa. 

The visitors have an excellent bilateral T20I series record against India and they will like to extend it further. Meanwhile, the Men in Blue will be missing some of its key players and it remains to be seen how the home team face a strong-looking South Africa side. 

Match Details:

Venue: Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram

Date & Time: September 28, 07:30 PM IST

Live Streaming: Star Sports Network

Pitch Report:

The ground has not hosted any T20I game since 2019. However, a good batting surface is expected for the encounter. Team winning the toss might want to restrict the opposition team below the 170-run mark before chasing the total. 

Probable Playing XIs:

India:

KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal

South Africa: 

Quinton de Kock(w), Reeza Hendricks, Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, David Miller(c), Tristan Stubbs, Andile Phehlukwayo, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi

Probable Top Performers:

Best batter of the match:

Rohit Sharma:

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma had a decent outing against Australia and the right-handed batter will look to continue his good form with the bat. Rohit might look to anchor the Indian innings and go for the big shots towards the end. 

Best bowler of the match:

Anrich Nortje:

Express pacer Anrich Nortje will look to take a few wickets with the new ball and provide an ideal start to his team in the field restrictions. Nortje can rattle the batters with his pace and has a mean bouncer in his arsenal as well. He is definately one of the bowlers to watch out for the game.

Today's Match Prediction: Chasing team to win the match.

Disclaimer: This prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.