Team India and South Africa have both showcased strong performances in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, finishing at the top of their groups without any losses. Their consistency and skill throughout the league phase highlight their status as top contenders for the championship.
As the tournament advances to the Super 8 stage, the competition intensifies. Both teams will face off in Group 1 alongside West Indies and Zimbabwe. Although these teams can create surprises, the focus remains on the highly anticipated match between India and South Africa, who were finalists in the last tournament. There is considerable excitement surrounding this contest.
In anticipation of the match, former South African captain Shaun Pollock has pointed out two Indian bowlers who he believes could make a significant difference.
Shaun Pollock highlights key bowlers for India
During a discussion on the SuperSport ICC T20 Men’s World Cup Round Table, Pollock mentioned Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakaravarthy as crucial bowlers that might give India an advantage.
“When I look down at the lineups, I think for me, the point of difference is the two bowlers in Bumrah and Chakaravarthy,” Pollock noted. He acknowledged that South Africa also has quality bowlers but emphasized that the unique style of these two Indian bowlers sets them apart. He described Bumrah as unorthodox, highlighting his unique wrist position and ability to perform in all phases of the game. His skills make him a constant threat, whether bowling early in Powerplay, maintaining pressure in the middle overs, or executing precise yorkers at the end.
“Not saying that South Africa haven’t got some quality, but it’s just the rare nature of the way they kind of deliver the ball that gives them maybe that little bit of an edge. Bumrah is very unorthodox. He’s got a wonderful wrist position. He bowls brilliantly in the Powerplays with a new ball, if he has to in the middle, and his death bowling is pretty exceptional as well,” added Pollock.
Pollock explained that Chakaravarthy’s control during middle overs is also vital. He noted that the mystery spinner’s adaptability allows him to manage any batter effectively. Whether against a left-hander or a right-hander, Chakaravarthy can adjust his style, which Pollock believes provides India with “a little bit of an edge” in their bowling.
“And then who controls the middle overs for them? Chakaravarthy…He’s a guy who can dictate to him. So, I think they’ve just got a little bit of an edge over us in that department,” Pollock added.
Exciting match-up with star players on both sides
While Bumrah and Chakaravarthy are highlighted as pivotal players, both teams have numerous match-winners ready to shine.
For India, captain Suryakumar Yadav will play a crucial role in their batting strategy, supported by explosive opener Abhishek Sharma and all-rounders Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, and Shivam Dube. Their ability to accelerate at different game stages makes India’s batting lineup both versatile and dangerous.
South Africa also has impressive talent, led by captain Aiden Markram, alongside pace spearhead Marco Jansen, experienced bowler Lungi Ngidi, and left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj. Young talents like Dewald Brevis and Tristan Stubbs further enhance the depth and unpredictability of the Proteas’ lineup.
