T20 World Cup 2026: 3 India players to watch for in IND vs SA

India and South Africa are all set to lock horns in the Super Eight clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 in Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, February 22. Notably, fans are already calling it the final before the final. Defending champions India came into the tournament as favourites and have lived up to that tag, winning all their group games. South Africa were also unbeaten in the toughest group and are in great headspace currently.

Furthermore, it is a rematch of the 2024 T20 World Cup final, where the Proteas let the trophy slip despite dominating for long stretches. India carries a 12-match winning streak in T20 World Cups and will be eager to continue it. But South Africa, familiar with the Ahmedabad conditions after playing three games here, will look to give the Men in Blue a tough time in the middle.

3. Suryakumar Yadav

Suryakumar Yadav has led India from the front in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026, playing the dual role of captain and batter. With four successive wins in the group stage, India head into the Super 8s with momentum, and Suryakumar’s performance has played a crucial role.

He has scored 406 runs in 15 T20Is against South Africa at an average of 31.23 and a strike rate of 156.15, including a century. Overall, in T20Is, he has 3,192 runs in 108 matches at 37.55, striking at 163.69, the best among players with 3,000-plus runs. In this tournament, his unbeaten 84 off 49 against the USA handed the team a narrow win. Following that, he has made notable contributions and will look to do the same in the coming game.

2. Varun Chakravarthy

Mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy has been one of India’s biggest match-winners in the ongoing competition so far. Chakravarthy is currently the second-highest wicket-taker in the tournament, claiming nine wickets in just four matches. His average of 6.88 and economy rate of 5.16 have gotten the Men in Blue back in the game on multiple occasions.

He began with 1/24 against the USA before producing a stunning 3/7 versus Namibia. He followed it up with 2/17 against Pakistan and a 3/14 against the Netherlands. Former India captain Kris Srikkanth even claimed Varun is currently more lethal than Jasprit Bumrah, praising his ability to control games.

1. Ishan Kishan

Opener Ishan Kishan has been one of India’s biggest positives in the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. The left-handed batter has provided solid starts at the top, taking pressure off the middle order. His standout knock came against Pakistan, where he smashed 77 off 41 balls. At one stage, he had scored 77 of India’s 88 runs, striking at 193. He followed it up with a 61 against Namibia. Even when he hasn’t converted starts – 20 against the USA and 18 in front of the Netherlands – his intent in the powerplay has been aggressive.

Kishan’s improved numbers against spin have been particularly crucial, especially with teams attacking India’s left-handers early. Heading into the Super 8 clash against South Africa, he will look to continue his approach and give India another flying start.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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