India National Cricket Team vs South Africa National Cricket Team Match: India are expected to make key change to their playing XI for their opening Super 8 match of the T20 World Cup 2026 against South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Vice-captain Axar Patel is likely to return to the side after being rested for India’s final Group A match against the Netherlands. If included, Axar will replace Washington Sundar. Washington Sundar filled in during that game but went wicketless in his four overs and did not bat.
Axar, who plays domestic cricket for Gujarat, is familiar with conditions at Narendra Modi Stadium and will look to make an impact in front of home supporters. The left-arm spinner has been a key performer for India in the tournament, taking six wickets in three games at an economy rate of 6.63.
Questions remain over India’s top order. Opener Abhishek Sharma has struggled with three consecutive ducks in the tournament, but the team management is unlikely to drop him. India captain Suryakumar Yadav dismissed suggestions of changes at the top of the order during a pre-match press conference Saturday. “bout Abhishek's form, I worry for the people who are worried about Abhishek's form. I worry about them. Why are they so worried about Abhishek's form?” SKY said.
Another player under scrutiny is Tilak Varma, who has yet to find consistency in the World Cup. However, he remains a key option against South Africa, against whom he has previously performed well in T20Is.
India’s bowling attack is expected to remain unchanged. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh will spearhead the pace unit, supported by all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube. Varun Chakravarthy, the team’s leading spinner with nine wickets in the tournament, will handle spin duties alongside Axar.
India Likely India XI Against South Africa: Abhishek Sharma or Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan (wk), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (capt), Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah.
India v South Africa ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Match Preview