India, SA eye series lead in Centurion before decisive T20I in Johannesburg

Analysis of the Men's T20I Series

After two matches, the India SA men's T20I series is far from over. Despite India winning the first game and South Africa leveling matters in the second, Wednesday's third match in Centurion will be crucial. A win for India will secure the series, while a victory for South Africa will keep the door open for a series win on Friday's final match at the Wanderers.

Shift in Context

The initial context of the series has changed, with two more matches planned. The series was an unplanned add-on to India's tour of South Africa, postponed due to the pandemic. Initially, the series was scheduled for three matches but was later expanded to four. This compromise has led to an intriguing situation where the team that wins on Wednesday cannot lose the series, while the losers can only hope to square the series on Friday.

Why Indian Batsmen Will Look to Thrive in Centurion

India will likely target free-flowing batting in Centurion, where scoring is easier. The Highveld conditions should aid their cause, with runs flying at 9.46 to the over in T20Is. However, this opens up opportunities for South African bowlers to outshine their Indian counterparts. Indian players like Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya will look to exploit the Centurion conditions and take the series in India's favour.

Struggle from South Africa Batting

The South African batting unit will need a drastic improvement to compete with the Indian team. At Kingsmead, they managed to bat conservatively but were forced to respond due to India's 107-run achievement. Their highest score of the series still remains Tristan Stubbs' 47 off 41 balls and it will require massive improvement from regular batsmen to tie the series or clinch the win for their respective team by tomorrow games

What to Expect Ahead of the Matches

Fast-scoring decks and extra-bounce pitches will define the forthcoming games, and any alterations due to rain are predicted as unlikely affecting the impending T20s