The stage is set for a thrilling finale in Ahmedabad as India and South Africa prepare to lock horns in the fifth and final T20 International this Friday. The series hangs in the balance after the fourth match in Lucknow was called off without a ball being bowled, a casualty of excessive fog at the venue.
Series on a Knife's Edge After Weather Intervenes
The three-match series has been a rollercoaster. India drew first blood with a win in the opening game, but South Africa showcased their resilience to bounce back and level the contest. The hosts, however, regained control with a dominant performance in the third T20I, taking a 2-1 lead. The abandoned fixture in Lucknow has now set up a winner-takes-all clash at the colossal Narendra Modi Stadium.
Team News and Injury Concerns Ahead of the Decider
As both teams finalize their strategies, India faces some selection puzzles. All-rounder Axar Patel has been officially ruled out of the final encounter. A bigger question mark hangs over the availability of vice-captain Shubman Gill, who is believed to be nursing a toe injury. While there is no official confirmation on his fitness, Gill has travelled with the squad to Ahmedabad, leaving the decision until the last moment.
Based on current form and availability, the probable playing elevens for this high-stakes match are anticipated as follows:
India Probable XI: Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Jitesh Sharma, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy.
South Africa Probable XI: Quinton de Kock, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Donovan Ferreira, George Linde, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi or Ottneil Baartman.
Ahmedabad Awaits a Spectacular Finish
With the series poised at 2-1 in India's favour, the equation is simple for the visitors: it's a do-or-die battle to share the trophy. For India, a win or even another washout would seal the series. All eyes will now be on the weather and the team sheets as cricket fans anticipate a fitting end to this closely fought contest under the lights in Ahmedabad.
