The Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to witness a high-voltage encounter as India lock horns with South Africa in Ahmedabad on February 22. The fixture carries added spice, as both sides were finalists in the previous edition, where India emerged victorious to lift the trophy.
This time around, the stakes feel just as high. Both teams have entered the Super 8 phase as strong title contenders and are widely tipped to go deep into the tournament once again. With a place in the knockout stage on the line and pride at stake, fans are expecting nothing less than a thriller when these two heavyweights collide at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
India have shown composure and depth in their campaign so far, while South Africa have displayed their trademark aggression and discipline. The rematch of the last final promises intensity, tactical battles, and moments of individual brilliance that could define the tournament’s trajectory.
Harbhajan Singh picks India’s playing XI for South Africa game
Team combination is likely to play a decisive role in Ahmedabad, a venue known for offering assistance to both batters and bowlers depending on conditions. With that in mind, former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has shared his predicted playing XI for the crucial encounter.
Speaking on Star Sports, Harbhajan emphasized that India should avoid unnecessary changes. According to him, continuity has been one of India’s biggest strengths in the tournament. He believes the side that featured earlier against the USA was “absolutely correct” and should largely remain intact for the South Africa challenge.
The only alteration he foresees is the return of Axar Patel. Harbhajan highlighted Axar’s importance as vice-captain and as a dependable all-round option who can deliver regardless of whether a left-hander or right-hander is at the crease. His presence adds balance to the side, offering control in the middle overs and depth with the bat.
Harbhajan’s probable XI for the clash includes: Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, and Varun Chakaravarthy.
It’s a line-up packed with firepower at the top, versatility in the middle order, and a bowling unit capable of defending or restricting totals on a big stage.
Superstars set for a spectacle at Narendra Modi Stadium
There is no shortage of star power on either side. India will bank on the flair of Suryakumar Yadav, the fearless strokeplay of Abhishek Sharma, and the all-round influence of Hardik Pandya. With the ball, the lethal pace of Jasprit Bumrah and the control of Axar Patel could prove decisive.
South Africa, however, possess a formidable arsenal of their own. Captain Aiden Markram brings calm leadership and power-hitting ability, while Quinton de Kock can take the game away in the powerplay. Their bowling attack, featuring Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi and Keshav Maharaj, ensures they remain competitive in any situation.
