South Africa and India kick off their electrifying six-match ODI series on Thursday 1 February at the iconic Sahara Stadium Kingsmead, Durban.
The Proteas come into this massive ODI series buzzing after their hard-fought 2-1 Test series victory over the touring Indian side in January. The atmosphere at Kingsmead is electric, with a sold-out crowd eager for top-class cricket and thrilling action.
Here’s the lowdown on what to expect from this cracker of a game:
South Africa vs India | Thursday 1 February | Sahara Stadium Kingsmead, Durban | 13:30
Match Odds – To Win
South Africa 61/100
Tie 35/1
India 27/20
South Africa
There’s some intriguing selection chatter with both Tabraiz Shamsi and Imran Tahir named in the ODI squad. Two wrist spinners might be overkill, especially given the typically pace-friendly South African conditions. Many feel Keshav Maharaj would have been a shrewder choice, offering control against India’s aggressive top order.
Batting-wise, with AB de Villiers sidelined due to injury, expect Aiden Markram to open alongside Quinton de Kock. Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis are set to bat first and second drop respectively, while David Miller holds the crucial number five spot.
Who bats at six is an exciting discussion point. Khaya Zondo, the Hollywoodbets Dolphins captain, has been impressive this season and could get a nod at his home ground. Don’t count out JP Duminy either, especially if the management desires an extra spin option.
India
India’s squad boasts a fearsome batting line-up with Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ajinkya Rahane leading the charge. The South African bowlers will need to strike early and keep tight lines to avoid the top order piling on the runs, particularly during the Power Play overs.
Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar are expected to spearhead the Indian pace attack following their strong Test series displays, supported by Mohammed Shami and Hardik Pandya. Axar Patel is likely to play a pivotal spin role, tasked with strangling South Africa’s batting with his impressive economy rates.
Verdict: South Africa 61/100
Durban’s conditions should suit India’s spin bowlers such as Patel, Chahal, and Kuldeep Yadav, but Kingsmead has been a fortress for the Proteas lately. South Africa has won all five of their recent ODIs at this venue, and that momentum is expected to continue in this thrilling opener.
