South Africa vs West Indies 1st T20I: Complete Match Guide and Live Streaming Information
The cricketing world turns its attention to South Africa as the Proteas host the West Indies in a crucial three-match T20I series, beginning today. This series serves as vital preparation for both teams ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, making every match significant for building momentum and testing strategies.
Match Overview and Team Form
South Africa enters this series looking to bounce back from their recent T20I series defeat in India. The team will be eager to regain confidence on home soil and fine-tune their combinations before the global tournament. Meanwhile, the West Indies are coming off a disappointing 1-2 series loss to Afghanistan in the United Arab Emirates earlier this month, adding pressure on captain Shai Hope to lead a resurgence.
The historical rivalry between these two cricketing giants adds extra spice to the contest. In T20 Internationals, they have faced each other 26 times, with South Africa winning 12 matches and West Indies emerging victorious in 14 encounters. This balanced head-to-head record promises competitive cricket throughout the series.
First T20I Match Details
Date: Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Venue: Boland Park in Paarl
Start Time: First ball to be bowled at 9:30 PM IST
The picturesque Boland Park in Paarl provides the backdrop for what promises to be an exciting opening encounter. Both teams will be looking to start the series on a positive note, with individual players aiming to secure their spots for the T20 World Cup.
Broadcast and Streaming Information
As of now, the official broadcast partners for live telecast and streaming of the South Africa vs West Indies 1st T20I match in India have not been announced. Cricket enthusiasts are advised to stay tuned to official cricket broadcasting platforms and sports networks for updates regarding where to watch the match live.
Typically, international cricket matches involving these teams are available on popular sports channels and digital streaming platforms in India. Fans should check with their local service providers closer to match time for confirmed viewing options.
Complete Squad Lists
South Africa Full Squad:
- Aiden Markram (Captain)
- Dewald Brevis
- Jason Smith
- George Linde
- Corbin Bosch
- Marco Jansen
- Quinton de Kock
- Rubin Hermann
- Ryan Rickelton
- Tristan Stubbs
- Keshav Maharaj
- Kwena Maphaka
- Anrich Nortje
- Lungi Ngidi
- Kagiso Rabada
West Indies Full Squad:
- Shai Hope (Captain and Wicketkeeper)
- Johnson Charles (Wicketkeeper)
- Alick Athanaze
- Ackeem Auguste
- Roston Chase
- Matthew Forde
- Jason Holder
- Akeal Hosein
- Brandon King
- Gudakesh Motie
- Rovman Powell
- Sherfane Rutherford
- Jayden Seales
- Romario Shepherd
- Shamar Joseph
- Shamar Springer
Complete Series Schedule
- 1st T20I: January 27 at Paarl – 9:30 PM IST
- 2nd T20I: January 29 at Centurion – 9:30 PM IST
- 3rd T20I: January 31 at Johannesburg – 9:30 PM IST
This three-match series provides both teams with valuable match practice ahead of the T20 World Cup. Each venue – Paarl, Centurion, and Johannesburg – offers different playing conditions that will test the adaptability of both squads.
Cricket fans can expect high-intensity action as these two competitive sides battle for supremacy in the shortest format of the game. With World Cup spots potentially on the line, every performance will be scrutinized, making this series more than just another bilateral contest.
