By Admin 
The first match of the T20 World Cup 2026 is being played today between West Indies and South Africa at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium. Team India is also keeping an eye on this match, because its result will decide India’s future in the tournament. India would like South Africa to win. After winning the toss, South Africa has decided to bowl first.
South Africa’s playing 11
Aiden Markram (captain), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brewis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jensen, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.
West Indies playing 11
Brandon King, Shai Hope (captain and wicketkeeper), Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder, Matthew Ford, Gudakesh Moti, Shamar Joseph.
The West Indies vs South Africa match to be held today in the T20 World Cup is very important, because if West Indies wins then India’s chances of going to the semi-finals will be very less. West Indies are currently on top in Group 1, the team has 2 points and a net run rate of +5.350. South Africa’s net run rate is +3.800, they also have 2 points.
The role of toss is going to be important in Narendra Modi Stadium. It is an afternoon match, so the decision to win the toss and bat first may prove to be correct. Chasing the target may be a bit difficult here. Both the last matches here have been won by the team batting first.
West Indies vs South Africa Head to Head
- Total matches: 26
- West Indies won: 14
- South Africa won: 12
Semi-final ticket of the winning team confirmed
West Indies or South Africa, whichever team wins today will secure its semi-final ticket. But India would like South Africa to win, because if West Indies wins then India’s chances of going ahead will be negligible.
West Indies vs South Africa match will start at 3 pm. The toss will take place at 2:30 pm. The match will be telecast live on Star Sports Network. Live streaming will be on JioHotstar app and website.
West Indies and South Africa squad
West Indies: Shai Hope (captain), Johnson Charles, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Roston Chase, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Moti, Sherfane Rutherford, Rovman Powell, Quentin Sampson, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Brandon King.
South Africa: Aiden Markram (captain), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, David Miller, Marco Yanson, Dewald Brewis, Tristan Stubbs, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Keshav Maharaj, Corbin Bosch, George Linde, Jason Smith, Enrique Norkhia, Kwena Mafaka.