Predicted Playing XI: South Africa vs Canada | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Match 9

South Africa vs Canada are set to lock horns in their Group D encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on Monday, February 9. The Proteas will enter the match as clear favourites on paper, but Canada’s disciplined bowling and improving batting depth could make this contest intriguing. 

South Africa possess a strong, well-balanced unit with a mix of explosive batters, experienced campaigners, and a potent bowling attack that threatens strength in all phases. Canada, captained by Dilpreet Bajwa, will rely on their budding talent and fearless intent to challenge 2024 T20 World Cup runners-up.

Predicted South Africa vs Canada Playing XI in T20 World Cup 2026 Match 9:

Canada’s Predicted Playing XI: 

Top Order: Quinton de Kock, Aiden Markram (c)

South Africa’s innings will likely be opened by the explosive Quinton de Kock, whose return to the captain’s XI has bolstered their batting firepower, and Aiden Markram, their leader at the top. The duo’s experience and ability to both attack and rotate will help set the tone in the powerplay. 

Middle Order: Ryan Rickelton (WK), Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs

Ryan Rickelton adds stability and power to the middle order, while exciting young talent Dewald Brevis brings innovation and big-hitting ability. Tristan Stubbs offers versatility, as he is able to accelerate or rebuild depending on the situation. The trio’s experience of playing in the IPL will come handy as well. 

Lower Order: David Miller, Marco Jansen

David Miller will be South Africa’s go-to finisher, known for his ability to clear boundaries with ease in the death overs. Marco Jansen adds depth with both bat and ball, capable of contributing crucial runs late and exploiting conditions with his pace. 

Bowlers: George Linde/Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje/Lungi Ngidi

South Africa’s bowling attack processes experience and aggression. Keshav Maharaj will lead the spin department, using his accurate bowling in the middle overs. The pace attack, led by Kagiso Rabada and one of Anrich Nortje or Lungi Ngidi, will aim to dominate both new ball and death phases. The all-round skills of George Linde or Corbin Bosch provide crucial balance to the side. 

South Africa’s predicted Playing XI: 

Quinton de Kock, Aiden Markram (c), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Marco Jansen, George Linde/Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje/Lungi Ngidi.

Predicted Canada Playing XI

Top Order: Yuvraj Samra, Dilpreet Bajwa (c)

Canada’s batting will start with Yuvraj Samra and skipper Dilpreet Bajwa, both aggressive openers who can capitalise on fielding restrictions early. Their intent during the powerplay will be crucial if Canada wants to go toe-to-toe with South Africa. 

Middle Order: Navneet Dhaliwal, Harsh Thaker, Shreyas Movva/Kanwarpal Tathgur, Nicholas Kirton, Jaskarandeep Singh

The Canadian middle order offers a blend of stability and aggression. Navneet Dhaliwal and Harsh Thaker bring experience, while the young dynamic presence of Shreyas Movva or Kanwarpal Tathgur can push the scoring rate. Nicholas Kirton and Jaskarandeep Singh add depth and flexibility. 

Bowlers: Saad Bin Zafar, Dilon Heyliger, Shivam Sharma, Kaleem Sana

Canada’s bowling looks well-balanced with a mix of seam and spin options. Kaleem Sana will lead the pace attack with the new ball, using his ability to swing and extract movement. Dilon Heyliger and Shivam Sharma add variety, while Saad Bin Zafar’s spin could prove handy in the middle overs. 

Canada’s predicted Playing XI: 

Yuvraj Samra, Dilpreet Bajwa (c), Navneet Dhaliwal, Harsh Thaker, Shreyas Movva/Kanwarpal Tathgur, Nicholas Kirton, Jaskarandeep Singh, Saad Bin Zafar, Dilon Heyliger, Shivam Sharma and Kaleem Sana.

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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