Join us as we gear up for the exciting third and final T20 clash between South Africa and India, taking place at the iconic SuperSport Park in Centurion on Saturday, 24 February.
What a turnaround we witnessed! South Africa absolutely dismantled India in the second T20 International at SuperSport Park Centurion on Wednesday.
The two cricketing giants will conclude their tour at Newlands, with the T20 series still up for grabs. Will the Proteas bounce back to secure a win, or will India clinch the bragging rights? Let’s dive into the details:
Match Details:
South Africa vs India | Saturday 24 February | PPC Newlands, Cape Town | 18:00
Match Betting Odds
South Africa 27/20
Tie 35/1
India 62/100
Make sure to place your bets early to catch the best odds!
South Africa’s Outlook
The Proteas deserved their six-wicket victory in the last match, with standout performances from JP Duminy (64) and Heinrich Klaasen (69). The real game changer with the ball was Junior Dala, whose fiery spells dismantled India’s top order.
Dala’s scalps of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, combined with a rock-solid economy rate of 7.00, proved crucial. On the flip side, Dane Paterson’s disappointing bowling figures (4-0-51-0) left much to be desired.
Paterson’s spot in the side remains under scrutiny. He’ll have a chance to redeem himself on Saturday; however, another poor outing could cost him his place in the squad ahead of the upcoming Australia series.
Leg-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi has also struggled recently, with Indian batsmen clearly having read his bowling. A change might be in order, with Aaron Phangiso’s tight control potentially offering a safer option.
Phangiso may not be as attacking, but limiting runs is vital in T20 cricket. Duminy and JJ Smuts’ previous bowling efforts highlight how crucial control is against a powerful batting lineup.
India’s Perspective
India will be stinging after their defeat and will surely be fired up for the match in Cape Town. Defending 188-4 should have been manageable at SuperSport Park, but the bowling faltered when it mattered most.
Despite decent economy rates from Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Shardul Thakur and Hardik Pandya, dropped catches by Jaydev Unadkat and Yuzvendra Chahal allowed Klaasen and Duminy to capitalise and swing the match.
Batting-wise, Manish Pandey’s brilliant unbeaten 79 was a highlight. Although aided by some wayward bowling, his aggressive play, especially on the leg side where he scored 55 runs, was impressive.
Looking ahead, India’s top order – Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shikhar Dhawan – will need to fire collectively for a winning result at Newlands.
Match Verdict: Back South Africa at 27/20
With the momentum favouring the Proteas following their strong win, I’m tipping South Africa to seal the series and wrap up the tour with a thrilling victory.
