The five-match series shifts to the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamshala for the 3rd T20I, with the series level at 1-1 after South Africa’s win in the last game. This scenic, high-altitude venue is famous for fast outfields, extra bounce, and dramatic conditions, promising a different challenge than the Mullanpur track.
Historically, the ground offers an even contest between bat and ball, with average first innings scores in the T20 format often in the 137-152 range, although recent IPL games have seen scores breach 200, indicating a potential for high-scoring matches. The pitch is known to offer good carry for pacers, aiding initial seam movement, but the true bounce also favors fluent strokeplay once the batters are set.
IND vs SA, 3rd T20I: Dharamshala Weather Forecast
The match on Sunday, December 14, 2025, is expected to be played in cold conditions with temperatures ranging between a maximum of 14°C and a minimum of 9°C during the evening. While the high-altitude weather is volatile, current forecasts predict generally clear skies with a low chance of rain (some sources suggest a slight possibility of light drizzle).The cool, crisp December air at this altitude (approx. 1,300–1,450 meters) is ideal for spectators but challenging for player’s grip. The main weather-related concern remains the dew factor rather than rain interruptions, ensuring a full match is likely.
IND vs SA, 3rd T20I: Dew Factor
The significant altitude of the HPCA Stadium, combined with the typical cool December evening, causes a heavy build-up of dew after sunset. This dew is expected to be a major game-changer, causing the ball to get wet, slick, and difficult to grip for bowlers in the second innings. The wet ball skids on the notoriously quick outfield, further aiding the chasing side by making it easier to hit through the line and concede boundaries. This effect neutralizes the threat of both spinners and pacers late in the game, amplifying the advantage for the team batting second, a characteristic seen in high-altitude night games here.
IND vs SA, 3rd T20I: Toss Prediction
Captains will likely choose to bowl first upon winning the toss for these key reasons:
- Dew Advantage: The significant evening dew makes bowling in the second innings extremely difficult, substantially boosting the chances of the team batting second.
- HPCA History: Although T20I wins are slightly balanced, the consistent presence of heavy dew strongly suggests the chasing team is highly favored in night games at this venue.
- Pacer’s Early Benefit: Bowling first allows the pace attack to exploit the extra bounce and potential seam/swing offered by the pitch with the hard, dry new ball before the dew settles.
- Batting Comfort: The high-altitude pitch provides true bounce and a fast outfield which is ideal for stroke-making, especially when the ball is wet and skidding on later in the match.
