Not Sanju Samson! Irfan Pathan picks India’s playing XI for the first T20I against South Africa

Table of Contents

As Team India gear up for the high-octane five-match T20 International series against South Africa, starting today at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has unveiled his preferred Playing XI. In a move that signals a clear focus on batting depth and a dynamic finisher, Pathan’s selection notably excludes experienced wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson, opting instead for the explosive lower-order prowess of Jitesh Sharma.

Pathan’s XI, released via his YouTube channel, features a compelling blend of youth and experience, designed to set an aggressive tempo from the first ball. He has chosen the young duo of Abhishek Sharma and the returning Shubman Gill as the openers. Pathan has publicly backed Gill to cement his place in the T20 format, following his recovery from a neck spasm that sidelined him from the earlier part of the tour.

The middle order is anchored by the stability and firepower of captain Suryakumar Yadav at number three, followed by the promising left-hander Tilak Varma at four. This top four provides a right-hand/left-hand combination that can unsettle the Proteas’ bowling attack.

The former pacer’s philosophy is strongly evident in the all-rounder slots, which are crucial for balance in the shortest format. Axar Patel has been picked for his dual utility—tight spin bowling and handy lower-order batting—before the returning star, Hardik Pandya, slots in at number six. Pandya’s comeback from a quadriceps injury adds immense value, and his form will be under a keen spotlight as the team builds towards the next ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

The most significant takeaway from Pathan’s line-up is the choice of Jitesh as the wicketkeeper over Sanju. Pathan has previously stressed the need for a reliable finisher alongside Pandya, and Jitesh’s strong track record as a genuine lower-order wrecker in the IPL, with a strike rate north of 170, appears to have sealed his spot. This decision underscores the team’s priority: a proven, high-impact finisher over Sanju’s middle-order versatility.

Also READ: IND vs SA T20I series: Dale Steyn and Irfan Pathan predict scoreline and identify the highest wicket-taker

The bowling unit is spearheaded by the return of spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who will assume the mantle of attack leader after being rested for the ODI series. Pathan has stressed the importance of India’s bowling depth and the need for their pace contingent to perform.

In the spin department, Pathan has opted for a duo of wrist-spinners in Kuldeep Yadav and the mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, providing a wicket-taking option through the middle overs. Arshdeep Singh rounds out the attack, with his left-arm angle and death-over specialist skills being invaluable alongside Bumrah.

Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah.

Also READ: IND vs SA: 3 Indian players who can trouble South Africa in the T20I series