India vs South Africa, 43rd Match, Super 8 Group 1 (X1 v X4)

The upcoming clash between India and South Africa in the 43rd match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 Group 1 promises to be a gripping contest at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Both teams come into this game with strong credentials and key players in prime form. India, as the top seed (X1), have exhibited consistent dominance through their explosive batting line-up, anchored by the form of their captain and top-order stalwarts. Their recent string of victories in T20 internationals, especially at home conditions, highlights their adaptability and depth. On the other hand, South Africa (X4) have battled hard in the tournament so far, showing resilience in both batting and bowling departments. Their pace attack is notably lethal, with death-over specialists capable of turning the tides. The head-to-head record slightly favors India, particularly in T20s played in India, though South Africa always brings unpredictability with their aggressive style. Both sides are likely to adopt contrasting strategies: India aiming to capitalize on their batting depth and spin-friendly pitches, while South Africa will bank on their disciplined pace attack and power hitters to accelerate in the middle overs. Field placements and bowling variations will be crucial, especially on a ground known to assist both batsmen and bowlers under the lights. Considering recent form, home advantage, and overall squad balance, India slightly edges out as favorites here but South Africa’s quality makes it anyone’s game on the evening.

AI suggested match winner: India: 57%, South Africa: 43%

If India bats first on this pitch, leveraging their strong top and middle order, they are likely to post a competitive total in the range of 170-185 runs. The stadium’s surface, known for consistent bounce and aiding stroke play, should help India's aggressive batsmen build momentum. Conversely, if South Africa bat first, their powerful batting line-up can exploit the initial conditions and reach a similar total bracket of around 165-180 runs, given their ability to score quickly in the powerplay and death overs. The pitch allows for stroke play without excessive early assistance to bowlers, thus both teams have the potential to go past the 170-mark comfortably if wickets are conserved.

The Narendra Modi Stadium traditionally offers a balanced pitch with true bounce and minimal swing initially, making it ideal for stroke-makers. The average first-innings score here is approximately 175 runs in T20s. Historically, chasing teams have a slight advantage, with a win percentage near 55% when batting second in day-night matches. Weather forecast predicts a clear evening with mild temperatures around 26°C and low humidity, conditions unlikely to affect play. Among the two teams, India’s Jasprit Bumrah holds the best bowling figures on this ground with a 4/15 haul, showcasing his skill in home conditions. For batsmen, Virat Kohli boasts the highest individual score of 96 runs here. South Africa’s Quinton de Kock also has a strong record at this venue with a swift half-century in their last T20 match on this ground. These players will be key in exploiting the pitch characteristics.

Matches Played	India Wins	South Africa Wins
34	18	16

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 Matches
India	W, W, L, W, W
South Africa	L, W, L, W, L

Virat Kohli - Recently in great touch, Kohli has accumulated consistent runs this tournament, showing excellent control and timely aggression at the top order.

Jasprit Bumrah - A threat with the new ball and death overs, Bumrah’s variations have yielded crucial wickets; he is expected to lead India’s bowling attack effectively.

Rishabh Pant - Known for explosive hitting, Pant’s recent innings have shifted momentum in India’s favour during crunch situations.

Quinton de Kock - South Africa’s dependable opener, de Kock has scored brisk runs in recent matches, providing solid starts and anchoring innings.

Kagiso Rabada - Rabada’s pace and ability to strike with the new ball remain vital for South Africa; he has taken key wickets in the death overs this season.

Temba Bavuma - The captain’s form has been pivotal; Bavuma’s consistency in the middle order has steadied South Africa’s batting in tight games.