India vs South Africa in Ahmedabad with a 2-1 series lead and a chance to end a long tour on a positive note on Saturday night after losing both Tests heavily.
India bounced back to win the ODI series 2-1 and have carried that momentum into the T20Is. The fourth match in Lucknow was washed out due to heavy fog, forcing a decider at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
This game carries added importance for captain Suryakumar Yadav, who is searching for form before a short break and a five-match T20I series against New Zealand next month, a key build-up to the T20 World Cup.
India may be forced into changes. Shubman Gill is nursing a foot injury and could miss out, which opens the door for Sanju Samson to start at the top. Samson’s aggressive approach could suit the flat Ahmedabad surface.
Axar Patel is unavailable due to illness. Shahbaz Ahmed has been added to the squad but may not make the XI, with Varun Chakaravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav expected to remain India’s main spin options.
The pace attack could get a boost. Jasprit Bumrah, who returned home earlier for personal reasons, is likely to rejoin the side. Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana impressed in Dharamshala and will be confident heading into the finale.
Recent Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy matches at this venue have slightly favoured batters. With night conditions and dew expected, captains may prefer chasing, and a high-scoring contest looks likely.
South Africa will welcome the truer pitch after being outplayed on a tricky Dharamshala surface. Aiden Markram’s side bats deep and has several power-hitters who could enjoy the conditions in Ahmedabad.
India cannot lose the series, but a 2-2 finish would still count as a strong result for South Africa, especially after their dominance in the Test leg of the tour.