After a hiatus since the 2023 World Cup final, India is set to return to ODI cricket, clashing with South Africa in the series opener at the New Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday (December 17). KL Rahul, who captained in ODIs during the previous South Africa tour, will once again lead the revamped Indian squad.
The team sees significant changes, with only a couple of players from the World Cup squad retaining their spots. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli opted for rest throughout the white-ball series, making their return for the upcoming Test series.
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Sanju Samson is confirmed to make a comeback in the playing XI for the series opener, while Ruturaj Gaikwad, who sat out the T20I series, is likely to feature in all three ODIs. The series opener may witness the debut of more than one player. KL Rahul will resume his dual role as captain and wicketkeeper, sidelining Ishan Kishan once again, who remained on the bench in the T20I series.
In the South African camp, Aiden Markram continues to lead the side in the ODIs, with Temba Bavuma not part of the squad. Key roles with the bat are anticipated for Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, and Aiden Markram in the series.
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Weather conditions could add an element of unpredictability, with a 40% forecast for thunderstorms on match day and another expected storm on Saturday (48% chance), potentially influencing pitch dynamics. However, the excellent drainage at the venue ensures a fast outfield despite possible weather disruptions.
South Africa
In the absence of key players like Temba Bavuma, Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, and Kagiso Rabada, opportunities arise for others in the upcoming match. Players like Tony de Zorzi and potential debutant Nandre Burger could benefit from the vacant spots.
Probable XI: Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram (capt), Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Andile Phehlukwayo, Keshav Maharaj, Nandre Burger, Lizaad Williams
India
Unfortunately, Ruturaj Gaikwad’s participation is uncertain due to a fever, while Deepak Chahar will miss the series due to a family medical emergency. Akash Deep replaces Chahar in the squad. Additionally, Shreyas Iyer is set to withdraw after Sunday’s game to focus on Test match preparations. The team dynamics shift with these changes, setting the stage for new faces to make an impact in the upcoming contest.
Probable XI: Rajat Patidar, Sai Sudharsan, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (capt), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan
Fantasy XI Suggestion 1:
Heinrich Klaasen, KL Rahul, Rassie van der Dussen, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain), Aiden Markram (Vice-captain), Axar Patel, Andile Phehlukwayo, Keshav Maharaj, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar
Fantasy XI Suggestion 2:
Heinrich Klaasen, KL Rahul, Reeza Hendricks, David Miller, Shreyas Iyer (C), Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Aiden Markram, Keshav Maharaj (VC), Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh
