The 1st T20I between India and South Africa takes place on December 9, 2025, at 7:00 PM local time (7:00 PM IST) at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. This match kicks off a three-game series following India’s 2-1 ODI series win, serving as a crucial tune-up for both sides ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Barabati Stadium’s pitch typically favors pace early on, with an average first-innings score around 140 in T20Is, though dew often aids chasing teams—two of three matches here were won by the team batting second. Expect cool evening conditions starting at 18-20°C, dropping to 14-16°C, with low rain risk (0-10%), moderate humidity (45-60%), and light winds that could enhance dew later.
India enters on a high after their ODI series triumph, boasting a stellar T20 record with 172 wins from 259 matches and the top ICC ranking. Their recent momentum includes dominant home performances, blending explosive batting with a lethal pace attack. South Africa, meanwhile, shows mixed results—strong wins like a 55-run thrashing of Pakistan and 53-run victory over Australia—but struggles for consistency away from home. Key talking points include India’s home dominance versus South Africa’s resilience in chases, plus the dew factor potentially tilting toss decisions toward bowling first.
Head-to-Head Summary
India and South Africa have clashed 31 times in T20Is, with India leading 18-12 (one no-result). In the last five meetings (all in South Africa, November 2024), India won four: by 135 runs (Johannesburg), 11 runs (Centurion), 61 runs (Durban), and one other, while South Africa took one by 3 wickets (Gqeberha).
IND vs SA Match Details
- Match: 1st T20 Match
- Teams: India vs South Africa 1st T20
- Date: 09 December 2025
- Time: 1:00 PM / 8:00 AM GMT / 1:30 PM LOCAL
- Venue: Barabati Stadium in Cuttack
IND vs SA Live Streaming Info
The 1st T20 Match between India vs South Africa is scheduled for December 09, 2025. This T20 match is at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack.
- In India: The match will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network and live streaming will be available on FanCode and Amazon Prime Video (SonyLiv app).
- In New Zealand: The match will be telecast on TVNZ 1 and streamed live on Sky Sport Now.
- In Australia: Telecast is available on Foxtel, Kayo Sports, and Fox Cricket channel (Channel 501) with live streaming on Kayo and Foxtel platforms.
- In Pakistan and other regions, platforms like Tapmad may also provide live streaming options
How to Watch the Match for Free:
On TV: The match is available free on DD Sports if you have a DD Free Dish connection; this lets you watch the game without any extra subscription fee.
On apps/sites: Live streaming is officially on JioCinema/Disney+ Hotstar (as per current rights), but these usually require at least a basic mobile or bundled plan; full live action is not generally free, though highlights are often available at no cost after the match.
Live Streaming Info:
The 1st t20 will be live on Willow TV.
Live Score Info:
Probable Playing XI:
India: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah.
South Africa: Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock/Donovan Ferreira (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Dewald Brevis, Corbin Bosch, Marco Jansen, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, Keshav Maharaj
India Team Analysis
India’s strength lies in a balanced top order and world-class bowling, with Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy adding flair. Weaknesses might emerge if spin isn’t utilized early on this pitch. Key players like Jasprit Bumrah (pace spearhead) and Abhishek Sharma (opener in form) shine, backed by recent home success.
South Africa Team Analysis
South Africa’s middle order packs power with David Miller and Tristan Stubbs, but their top-order fragility and spin vulnerabilities could hurt on a pitch offering turn. Aiden Markram’s leadership and Anrich Nortje’s express pace provide edges, though inconsistent recent tours expose batting depth issues.