The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup – Group D clash between South Africa and Afghanistan will take place at the imposing Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on 11 February. The match is scheduled to begin at 11:00 IST, converted from a 05:30 UK start time, and shapes up as one of the most intriguing fixtures of the group stage. With contrasting strengths and conditions that can reward both pace and spin, this contest could prove pivotal in the race for qualification.
Form Guide
South Africa
South Africa arrive with a powerful and experienced T20 squad, built around explosive batting and a high-quality pace attack. Their recent performances suggest a side capable of dominating matches, though consistency against spin-heavy teams has occasionally been tested.
- Strong pace bowling unit effective in powerplay and death overs.
- Middle order packed with proven finishers.
- Can be challenged on slower surfaces by quality spin.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan have firmly established themselves as T20 specialists, particularly dangerous in conditions that assist spin. Their fearless batting approach and world-class spin resources make them one of the most awkward opponents in global tournaments.
- Elite spin attack capable of controlling entire innings.
- Batters comfortable attacking both pace and spin.
- Fielding energy consistently high.
Key Players
South Africa
- Aiden Markram – A composed leader whose technique suits building innings under pressure.
- David Miller – A proven finisher with vast T20 experience.
- Kagiso Rabada – A strike bowler capable of decisive breakthroughs at any stage.
Afghanistan
- Rashid Khan – A genuine match-winner with leg-spin and late-order hitting.
- Mohammad Nabi – An experienced all-rounder who thrives in tactical contests.
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz – An aggressive opener capable of fast starts.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Narendra Modi Stadium typically offers a balanced surface, with good bounce and carry early before slowing slightly as the match progresses. Fast bowlers who hit hard lengths can be effective, while spinners often come into play through variation rather than sharp turn. Dew can be a significant factor, particularly in day-night fixtures, potentially favouring the chasing side. Weather conditions in Ahmedabad are expected to be warm and dry, ideal for a full contest.
South Africa vs Afghanistan – Prediction
This Group D encounter promises to be a tactical battle between pace and spin. South Africa will look to impose themselves through early strikes from Kagiso Rabada and controlled batting from Aiden Markram. Afghanistan, however, are exceptionally well equipped to exploit any grip in the surface, with Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi likely to play decisive roles. Expect a closely fought contest, with South Africa holding a narrow edge due to their pace depth and big-match experience.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Rashid Khan – High-impact wicket-taker with all-round value.
- Kagiso Rabada – Consistent strike bowler in major tournaments.
- David Miller – Proven finisher with strong fantasy upside.
