SA vs IND 2023: Team India’s predicted XI for first T20I against South Africa

Team India have already reached South Africa to prepare for the multi-format series. The long tour will kick off with the T20I series taking place first. The first match will get underway on December 10 at the Kingsmead Stadium Cricket Ground.

The absence of senior players means the Men in Blue will field young players to battle out with the Proteas. While many Indian youngsters don’t have enough overseas experience, South Africa cannot afford to underestimate them at any cost.

Here we take a look at Team India’s possible playing XI for the first T20I match against South Africa:

Openers: Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad

Shubman Gill was given rest for the Australia series as he was a vital part of the World Cup squad. But not that he has returned to the squad, it means he will retake the opening duties for the side.

While there are chances of Ishan Kishan or Yashasvi Jaiswal opening the innings alongside him, Ruturaj Gaikwad stands a strong chance. Especially after his heroic knock against the Baggy Greens in the recently concluded T20I series.

Gaikwad closed the series with 223 runs to his name in five innings, averaging 55.75 at a strike-rate of 159.29. Hence, he remains a strong contender for the opening slot.