South Africa won the toss and chose to bowl first in their must-win match against India in the Sri Lanka Women’s T20I tri-series. The Proteas were dealt a blow with captain Laura Wolvaardt ruled out due to illness. Chloe Tryon is leading the team in her absence.
Wolvaardt is reportedly recovering but was left out as a precaution due to hot and humid conditions in Dambulla, where heat-related issues have already affected multiple players during the tournament.
Two Debutants: Shuchi Upadhyay and Miane Smit
The match saw India’s Shuchi Upadhyay and South Africa’s Miane Smit receive their maiden international caps. Upadhyay, a left-arm spinner, replaces Kashvee Gautam in India’s bowling attack. Meanwhile, South Africa handed a debut to 20-year-old batter Smit, slotted at No.4.
India also brought in Amanjot Kaur, giving her a playing opportunity in place of Arundhati Reddy.
Key Absentees and Stakes for the Final
Karabo Meso, who suffered a heat-related illness against Sri Lanka, continues to be unavailable for South Africa. Sinalo Jafta replaces her as wicketkeeper. Ayabonga Khaka was also left out in favor of Nondumiso Shangase, who adds spin to the lineup.
South Africa, having lost two matches, must beat both India today and Sri Lanka on Friday to reach the final. India, with two wins and one loss, only need one more win to seal their spot in Sunday’s final.
Playing XIs
India Women:
Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (wk), Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana, Shree Charani, Amanjot Kaur, Shuchi Upadhyay
South Africa Women:
Tazmin Brits, Lara Goodall, Sune Luus, Miane Smit, Nondumiso Shangase, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Chloe Tryon (c), Annerie Dercksen, Nadine de Klerk, Nonkululekho Mlaba, Masabata Klaas
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