All eyes will be on Ahmedabad as India and South Africa prepare for the fifth and final T20I, with conditions expected to be near-perfect for a high-quality series decider. According to forecasts, there is no threat of rain or fog, while dew is likely to play a decisive role later in the night, making the toss a crucial factor at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
With the series currently in favour of the home team, captains and coaches will closely study the conditions to determine the best approach on a surface that traditionally rewards teams chasing under lights.
Ahmedabad Weather Forecast
Weather updates from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and other leading forecasting agencies suggest a smooth evening in Ahmedabad on match day. Clear skies are predicted throughout the game, with no precipitation expected during playing hours.
Temperatures are likely to range between 16°C and 20°C once the match gets underway, offering pleasant conditions for both players and spectators. Light winds and moderate humidity should not significantly influence swing or movement, allowing the contest to unfold without weather-related disruptions.
The absence of fog – an issue that affected earlier matches in northern India – comes as a relief, ensuring full visibility and uninterrupted play for the series finale.
Dew Factor
One of the most significant factors in Ahmedabad night matches is the dew, and analysts expect it to feature prominently in the second innings of the IND vs SA 5th T20I.
As temperatures drop later in the evening, a noticeable layer of dew is likely to form on the outfield and pitch. This often causes the ball to skid on, making it harder for bowlers – particularly spinners and seamers relying on cutters – to maintain grip and control.
For batters, these conditions typically ease stroke-play, allowing them to play through the line with greater confidence. As a result, defending a total under dew-heavy conditions can become increasingly challenging, especially in the death overs.
Toss Prediction
Given the expected conditions, most pre-match assessments suggest that the team winning the toss should opt to bowl first. The logic is simple: exploit slightly drier conditions early on, then take advantage of dew-assisted batting later in the game.
Captains are likely to back their bowling units to keep the opposition in check during the first innings before relying on improved batting conditions to chase down the target.
Par score and match strategy at Narendra Modi Stadium
Based on recent matches at the venue and current pitch behaviour, a first-innings par score of 170-180 is expected. Teams batting first will aim to push beyond this range to offset the impact of dew later on.
Bowling sides will focus on disciplined powerplay spells and smart middle-over strategies to restrict scoring, while batting units chasing will look to pace their innings and capitalise on the slick outfield and skiddier ball.
