The three-match T20I series between India and South Africa hangs in the balance after the second game in Chennai was abandoned due to rain. Both teams will be aiming to secure victory in the decider on Tuesday, July 9th, at the Chepauk stadium, but the weather forecast has thrown a curveball with a chance of further rain.
Unanswered questions for India
Sunday’s washout left several unanswered questions, particularly for India. With four changes to their lineup, including a potential no. 3 batter replacing the in-form D Hemalatha, fans were eager to see the new-look batting order in action. Debuting wicket-keeper Uma Chetry and the hard-hitting Sajana Sajeevan were both contenders for the no. 3 spot.
India’s bowling attack also showed glimpses of improvement after conceding a massive 189 runs in the first game. Spin veteran Deepti Sharma led the fightback with her experience, but overall, India still leaked runs at a high rate. Fielding lapses also plagued India in the first game, although the wet outfield contributed to some of these issues.
High-scoring pitch expected in Chennai
The pitch at Chepauk has facilitated high-scoring encounters in the first two games, and a similar trend is expected for the decider. However, rain remains a significant concern, potentially delaying or even washing out the crucial match.
IND vs SA: Head-to-Head
Despite the washout, India maintains a lead in the head-to-head record against South Africa, sitting at 9-6.
India vs South Africa 3rd T20I: Team Updates
India will be anxiously awaiting an update on Richa Ghosh’s availability after a potential injury concern. Hemalatha might return if her absence in the second game was due to an ankle twist. Otherwise, the rest of the winning first-game XI is likely to get another chance.
South Africa, on the other hand, is expected to remain consistent with their selection, potentially keeping Sune Luus on the bench as they prioritize their World Cup starting XI.
The match will also be a stage for potential milestones. Jemimah Rodrigues is just three runs away from 2,000 T20I runs, Pooja Vastrakar needs one wicket to reach 50 T20I wickets, and Harmanpreet Kaur is 62 runs shy of becoming the second-highest run-scorer in women’s T20I history.
Can India level the series, or will South Africa clinch victory? The weather and a determined performance from both teams will decide the fate of this exciting series.
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