SA vs IND 2023/24, 1st T20I: Match called off in Durban due to bad weather

The opening match of the three-game T20I series between India and South Africa was called off due to poor weather conditions, disappointing the packed crowd at Kingsmead in Durban. This cancellation means that the Indian cricket team, with only six T20Is scheduled before next year’s World Cup, now has one less opportunity to fine-tune their team combination.

The teams, featuring a mix of younger players for this series, saw Suryakumar Yadav leading India as the captain. Yadav, affectionately known as SKY by fans, recently guided India to a win against Australia. Aiden Markram was appointed as the captain for the South African side.

The rain in Durban has disrupted India’s planning. With a busy schedule in 2024, India only has a limited number of T20Is – three against South Africa and three against Afghanistan at home – to solidify their strategy and player positions for the World Cup.

The washout in Durban has delayed the chance for several young players, who were expected to feature in the first T20I, to showcase their skills. They will now have to wait until the second game of the series, scheduled for Tuesday (Dec 12) in Gqeberha, to potentially take the field.