South Africa’s T20I captain Aiden Markram emphasised that the upcoming series against India, starting on November 8, should not be viewed as a rematch of the 2024 T20 World Cup final, despite the two teams facing each other for the first time since the final in Barbados. Markram made it clear that the Proteas are not approaching the series with any revenge mindset, focusing instead on the significance of playing against India at home.
During the pre-match press conference, Markram addressed the upcoming challenge, saying that while the series is undoubtedly important, South Africa’s strategy would be centred on executing their game plan rather than trying to exact revenge for the World Cup defeat. He stressed that the team is aware of India’s recent form, particularly their success in home series against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, and that the focus is on competing well without any lingering thoughts of the final loss.
“It’s the same countries I guess…but personnel has changed for both teams. It’s always an exciting series when you play against India and especially when you play them at home. It’s a series we have always looked forward to. We have not addressed anything about it being a rematch or things like that. Obviously, a lot of talk and promotions have happened through that lens, which is completely understandable.
Players missing from the T20 WC Final
This series marks the first encounter between the two teams since the T20 World Cup final, although both squads will look quite different from the ones that competed for the title. South Africa will miss key players like Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi, and wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock, who were pivotal in their World Cup campaign. India’s squad also has notable absences but retains four members from their World Cup-winning team: captain Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, and a few emerging players.
For India, this series will be a chance to test new talent and recalibrate strategies, especially in light of recent successes in the T20 format. South Africa, with home advantage, will look to capitalise on India’s transitional squad and make the most of the experience of players like Aiden Markram and others in their lineup.
Crucial series for both sides
For India, the series comes at a crucial time following their disappointing 3-0 loss to New Zealand in the Test series. Despite this, the Suryakumar Yadav-led team will enter the T20I series with an edge in confidence, having clinched victories against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. India will look to carry that momentum forward and build confidence ahead of more challenging assignments.
For South Africa, this series marks an opportunity to get back on track after a string of disappointing results. Their recent T20 series loss to the West Indies and a drawn series against Ireland highlighted the Proteas’ struggles in white-ball cricket. Markram and his team are fully aware of the need to turn things around and will be looking to give their best performance in front of home crowds. Despite the pressure, South Africa is determined to focus on their game rather than the stakes tied to the World Cup result.
