super 8 stage of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 A high-voltage encounter is set to be witnessed as India blow the horn with South Africa In Ahmedabad on 22 February. There is added spice to the match, as both the sides were finalists in the previous edition, where India emerged victorious to lift the trophy.
This time too the stakes seem equally high. Both teams enter the Super 8 stage as title favorites and are widely believed to once again advance to the tournament. With a place in the knockout stage assured and pride at stake, fans are expecting nothing less than a thrill when these two giants clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
India have shown composure and depth in their campaign so far, while South Africa have displayed their trademark aggression and discipline. The rematch of the last final promises to be moments of intensity, tactical battle and individual brilliance that could define the trajectory of the tournament.
Harbhajan Singh picks India’s playing eleven for South Africa match
The team combination can play a decisive role in Ahmedabad, which is known to provide support to both the batsmen and bowlers depending on the conditions. With this in mind, the former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh Has shared his predicted playing eleven for the important match.
Speaking on Star Sports, Harbhajan stressed that India should avoid unnecessary changes. According to him, consistency has been one of India’s biggest strengths in the tournament. He believes the side fielded earlier against the United States was “absolutely perfect” and should remain largely intact for the South African challenge.
The only change he hopes for is the return of Akshar Patel. Harbhajan highlighted the importance of Axar as the vice-captain and a dependable all-round option who can perform well regardless of whether he is a left-handed or right-handed batsman at the crease. His presence adds balance to the team, providing control in the middle overs and depth with the bat.
Harbhajan’s probable XI for the match includes: Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Verma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dubey, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakraborty.
This is a line-up packed with firepower at the top, versatility in the middle order and a bowling unit capable of defending or restricting the total on the big stage.
Also read: T20 World Cup 2026: India vs South Africa Super 8 ticket prices, booking details
Ready to see the magic of superstars in Narendra Modi Stadium
There is no dearth of star power on both sides. Will trust India’s talent Suryakumar YadavFearless strokeplay Abhishek Sharmaand overall impact of hardik pandya. With the ball, the lethal speed of Jasprit Bumrah And Akshar Patel’s control may prove decisive.
However, South Africa has a formidable arsenal of its own. captain aiden markram Whereas, brings calm leadership and power-hitting ability quinton de kock Can snatch the game in power play. Characteristics of their bowling attack Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi And Keshav MaharajThis ensures that they remain competitive in any situation.