India vs South Africa Live Score, 1st T20I: Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah return as India face South Africa in the T20Is

India vs South Africa Live Score: Spotlight on Hardik Pandya and Dewald Brevis in T20I Showdown

As India face South Africa in the first T20I at Cuttack, two players stand out: India’s Hardik Pandya and South Africa’s Dewald Brevis. Hardik’s return from injury strengthens India’s squad. Since 2024, India have been nearly unstoppable in T20Is with him in the team, winning 25 of 28 matches. His ability to bat deep, bowl effectively, and provide balance makes him the key to India’s strategy. With Jasprit Bumrah on the verge of 100 wickets and Hardik at 98, milestones will add extra motivation.

Brevis, meanwhile, has emerged as one of the most destructive T20 batters globally against spin. Since his debut in 2023, he has struck at 225 against spin, averaging 60, and comes into this series in prime form. His performance will test India’s three-to-four spinner attack in Cuttack.

India are nearly at full strength with Shubman Gill back after injury, joining Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and Axar Patel in the playing XI. The team has minor selection questions, mainly around the No. 8 slot and the wicketkeeper role. South Africa, meanwhile, hope to field their strongest XI for the first time in months, with Aiden Markram captaining and David Miller and Anrich Nortje back.

Cuttack has been kind to South Africa in the past, with two previous T20I wins here. The pitch typically offers something for everyone: seamers, spinners, and dew to trouble bowlers. Conditions are expected to be overcast but rain-free.

This series is crucial for both teams, providing experience, role clarity, and a glimpse at how India and South Africa could shape up for the T20 World Cup 2026. Fans can expect exciting contests, milestones, and strategic battles from the very first match.