India on Wednesday announced its squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa, set to begin on December 9, with the major headline being the return of pace all-rounder Hardik Pandya. His inclusion comes after he successfully proved his fitness in a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy match on Tuesday, marking his first competitive appearance since India’s Super Fours clash against Sri Lanka at the 2025 Asia Cup in September.
Pandya had missed the Asia Cup final against Pakistan due to injury and was subsequently ruled out of the tour of Australia. His comeback is expected to provide a significant boost to India’s balance, particularly as the team sharpens its preparations for the T20 World Cup early next year.
Another key addition to the squad is Shubman Gill, India’s Test and ODI captain. However, his involvement in the series will depend on receiving medical clearance from the BCCI Centre of Excellence. Gill had suffered a neck sprain during the first Test against South Africa in Kolkata, and the management remains cautious about his workload as he continues rehabilitation.
Suryakumar Yadav will continue to lead the side, extending his stint as captain in the shortest format. Under his leadership, India has focused on building a flexible and dynamic T20 unit, experimenting with combinations in the lead-up to next year’s global tournament. His presence brings continuity as the squad works to fine-tune its strategies against a strong South African outfit.
The series holds added importance for India as the team aims to solidify roles and assess returning players before finalising its World Cup squad. With Pandya’s fitness restored and Gill on the path to recovery, the selectors appear intent on reinforcing the core group that will carry India through a busy international season.
The five matches beginning December 9 will also serve as a platform for fringe players to make their case, while senior stars look to regain rhythm and consistency. As the countdown to the T20 World Cup accelerates, India’s latest squad announcement signals a blend of renewed strength and cautious optimism.
India squad for T20I series against South Africa:
Suryakumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC)*, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar
