India vs South Africa in Ahmedabad with a 2-1 series lead and a chance to end a long journey on a positive note on Saturday evening after losing both Tests badly.
India recovered to win the ODI series 2-1 and have carried that momentum into the T20Is. The fourth match in Lucknow failed due to heavy fog, forcing a decider at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
This match carries extra importance for captain Suryakumar Yadav, who is looking to regain form ahead of a short break and a five-match T20I series against New Zealand next month, an important build-up to the T20 World Cup.
India can be forced to make changes. Shubman Gill is nursing a foot injury and could miss, opening the door for Sanju Samson to start at the top. Samson’s aggressive approach would suit Ahmedabad’s flat surface.
Axar Patel is unavailable due to illness. Shahbaz Ahmed has been added to the squad but may not make the XI, with Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav expected to remain India’s main spin options.
The pace attack could get a boost. Jasprit Bumrah, who returned home early due to personal reasons, is likely to rejoin the squad. Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana impressed in Dharamshala and will go into the final with confidence.
Recent Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy matches at this venue have somewhat favored batters. With nighttime conditions and dew expected, captains may prefer to hunt, and a high-scoring contest seems likely.
South Africa will welcome the better pitch after playing on a tough surface in Dharamshala. Aiden Markram’s side bat deep and have several power hitters who were able to enjoy the conditions in Ahmedabad.
India cannot lose the series, but a 2-2 finish would still count as a strong result for South Africa, especially after their dominance in the Test leg of the tour.
#India #South #Africa #5th #T20I #Match #preview #eyes #Ahmedabads #decision