Shubman Gill, returning from injury, is set to open alongside Abhishek Sharma. Though Sanju Samson prefers opening, Gill is being preferred for his anchoring ability. Abhishek will take on the aggressive role. Captain and world No. 1 T20 batter Suryakumar Yadav will bat at his favorite No. 3 position. Tilak Varma is expected to be the priority at No. 4, adding left-handed balance to the lineup.

As wicketkeeper, Jitesh Sharma is currently ahead of Sanju. The reason is simple — Jitesh is explosive from ball one and is a specialist finisher, a role in which India lacks options. If Sanju plays, he would need to come down the order, which is not his natural position.

Hardik Pandya’s Return Strengthens Team Balance

Hardik Pandya’s comeback provides the perfect balance — destructive batting at No. 5 and four overs of medium-fast bowling. After him comes the reliable all-rounder Axar Patel.

In pace bowling, Jasprit Bumrah will lead the attack. Arshdeep Singh’s experience helps his case, but young Harshit Rana’s speed and aggression make him a strong contender. With Hardik available as an additional pacer, Harshit could comfortably bowl all four overs if selected.

In the spin department, Kuldeep Yadav will partner with mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy, a combination that could trouble South Africa’s middle order.

India’s Probable XI :

Shubman Gill (Vice-captain), Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, (Wicketkeeper), Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh / Harshit Rana, Jasprit Bumrah

Match Details

Toss Time: 6:30 PM (IST)

Match Start: 7:00 PM (IST)

Live Telecast: Star Sports Network

Live Streaming: JioCinema / Hotstar app & website

Fire department officials said multiple fire engines rushed to the spot as soon as the incident was reported. It took a long time to bring the blaze under control. The injured were immediately taken to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital. Delhi Police, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), and the National Security Guard (NSG) reached the scene soon after, and forensic teams have already begun their investigation. Preliminary findings suggest the incident may have been a planned act of sabotage.

A senior fire officer said, “Though the fire has been brought under control, several vehicles were badly damaged due to the intensity of the blast. The injured were rescued promptly.” Following the explosion, a “high alert” has been declared across Delhi. Security has also been tightened in Mumbai, Lucknow, and Ayodhya, especially around the Ram Temple complex.

The repercussions of the Red Fort blast have reached Kolkata as well. Lalbazar (Kolkata Police Headquarters) has issued an alert to all city police stations, urging extra vigilance. This comes ahead of the India vs. South Africa Test series, set to begin at Eden Gardens on November 14. The Indian team has already arrived in Kolkata, and the South African squad is expected to reach the city tonight.

According to sources, a three-tier security arrangement will be in place at Eden Gardens and surrounding areas during the match. CCTV surveillance will be strengthened, with bomb and dog squads deployed across key points. Strict frisking and baggage checks will be conducted at all entry gates.

Meanwhile, India’s coach Gautam Gambhir had planned to visit the Kalighat Temple on Tuesday, but that visit has been postponed due to the current situation. The Delhi blast has triggered widespread concern across the country. The Union Home Ministry has formed a special investigation team to uncover the cause and conspiracy behind the explosions. Authorities have urged citizens to remain calm but alert.

Confidence Amid Poor Form

Speaking to reporters before the Australian tour, Suryakumar addressed questions about his form:

“I believe I’ve been working hard enough — just as I always have. I trained well in India, and I’m putting in the same effort here. Both my body and mind are in good rhythm, and that’s what matters most.”

Suryakumar, known for his explosive stroke play and fearless cricket, has been one of India’s most dangerous T20 batters. Despite his recent slump, he refuses to lose confidence.

“I’m not thinking about runs. The team’s goals come first. I want to play according to the situation and take one game at a time,” said the Indian captain.

Gambhir’s Unwavering Support

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has also backed his skipper. In a recent interview, he said:

“I’m not at all worried about Suryakumar’s form. He’s the kind of player who can turn a match around with a single innings.”

According to Gambhir, consistency is measured differently in T20 cricket — what matters most is intent and the willingness to take risks for the team.

“This Indian side plays fearless cricket. We want every player to express themselves and contribute as the team requires. Suryakumar is doing exactly that,” Gambhir added.

The Numbers Tell a Story

In his last 20 T20 innings, Suryakumar has scored 330 runs. Even though India lifted the Asia Cup, he couldn’t quite rediscover his best form with the bat. However, his performance in the 2025 IPL was spectacular — 717 runs in 16 innings — giving the team management hope that he can regain his rhythm on Australian soil.

Experts believe that Australian pitches suit Suryakumar’s style perfectly. With true bounce and pace on offer, his timing and range of shots could shine once again. His role will be crucial — especially in accelerating the scoring between the middle and death overs.

Confidence Is His Weapon

On the eve of the series, Suryakumar’s self-belief was evident:

“Every match is a new challenge. My job is to play my role and help the team achieve its goals. The runs will come — I just need to stay patient.”

This series is not just important for Team India, but also a personal test for Suryakumar Yadav. A return to form with the bat could make India an even more dangerous side under his leadership. Fans are eagerly waiting for the moment when his bat once again lights up the skies over Canberra.