India A vs South Africa A – 3rd Unofficial ODI Preview (2025-11-19)

Date & Time: Wednesday, 19 November 2025, 01:30 PM GMT
Venue: Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
Series: South Africa A tour of India 2025 – 3rd Unofficial ODI
Format: 50 Overs (Unofficial)

Match Context

The third and final unofficial ODI of the South Africa A tour of India 2025 is set to take place at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, a venue known for its balanced playing conditions. India A and South Africa A have already played two unofficial Tests and two ODIs, with India A emerging victorious in the first Test by four wickets.

South Africa A, despite a strong bowling performance from Tiaan van Vuuren in the first Test, were edged out by India A, who showcased their resilience with a tight chase. The ODIs have been more competitive, and this final match promises to be a showcase of depth and talent from both sides as they look to end the series on a high.

Team Strengths and Tactics

India A:

India A has shown strong batting depth and adaptability in the series so far. With the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Saurabh Netravalkar leading the charge with the bat, the team is capable of posting imposing totals. Their spinners, particularly the experienced Axar Patel, have been a key asset, especially on turning tracks.

India A is likely to start the innings in this match, aiming to put pressure on South Africa A with a competitive total. The middle-order will be crucial, given the depth of talent and the importance of rotating the strike effectively.

South Africa A:

South Africa A, on the other hand, brings a well-balanced team with a strong top-order and a potent bowling attack. Tiaan van Vuuren remains a key figure with the ball, and the likes of Aiden Markram and Rilee Roussouw provide solid top-order options. The Proteas A side also boasts a deep middle-order, which could prove dangerous on a flat, high-scoring track.

If South Africa A wins the toss and chooses to bowl first, they will look to exploit any early wickets to build momentum. Their fast bowlers will be eager to take advantage of the pace-friendly conditions at Rajkot, while the spinners will remain a threat in the middle overs.

Weather and Pitch Conditions

The Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot is expected to offer a flat, true, and fast-paced pitch, ideal for aggressive batting. With clear skies and minimal chances of rain, both teams can expect to have full access to the 50 overs. Such conditions are likely to favor the side that wins the toss and chooses to bat first, as the scorecard could be a high one.

Key Players to Watch

• Yashasvi Jaiswal (India A): The young opener has been in sublime form in the series. His ability to play both spin and pace with confidence could be the difference for India A.
• Saurabh Netravalkar (India A): A reliable middle-order batsman and left-arm spinner, Netravalkar brings balance to the side and can turn the game in India A’s favor with either bat or ball.
• Tiaan van Vuuren (South Africa A): The wicket-keeper batsman is a key all-rounder for South Africa A. His ability to score crucial runs and take wickets makes him a match-winner.
• Aiden Markram (South Africa A): Markram's calm and controlled batting style makes him a cornerstone of South Africa A’s batting line-up. He is expected to anchor the innings under pressure.

Prediction

This match promises to be a closely contested affair with both teams eager to end the series on a high. If India A wins the toss and bats first, their batters could set a daunting total. However, South Africa A’s strong middle-order and bowling attack could give them the edge in the chase.

Prediction: India A to win by 4–5 wickets if they bat first and post a strong total.

Conclusion

The third unofficial ODI between India A and South Africa A is set to be an exciting conclusion to the series. With both teams having quality in all departments, the match will be a true test of skill, strategy, and adaptability. Cricket fans can look forward to a thrilling contest as the two teams go head-to-head in Rajkot.
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