South Africa take on Canada on Monday. Read our in-depth preview here…
South Africa begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Canada in Ahmedabad on Monday knowing an upturn in form will be required if they are to mount a serious challenge for the title.
The Proteas have struggled for consistency since losing the 2024 final to India, winning just 12 of their 32 matches in the format during that period, a record that underlines the work still to be done.
However, there is renewed belief within the squad after ending a long wait for global silverware by lifting the World Test Championship last year, a breakthrough that has helped shift the mindset around major tournaments.
Canada arrive short on high-level match practice but eager to make a statement on the world stage, and South Africa will be wary of a format where upsets are never far away.
There have been late changes to the Proteas squad, with Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs drafted in following injuries to Donovan Ferreira and Tony de Zorzi, adding depth and flexibility to the batting order.
Conditions in India are expected to favour batters, placing added importance on South Africa’s bowling attack. Keshav Maharaj will be central to their spin options, while the impact of pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada could prove decisive.
With the bat, much of the attention will fall on experienced opener Quinton de Kock and the explosive Dewald Brevis, both capable of changing games in short bursts.
Captain Aiden Markram insisted his side are not burdened by the disappointment of the previous tournament, where they fell short against India despite controlling much of the final.
“The previous World Cup is what it is,” Markram said. “It’s two years ago and we’ve played a lot of cricket since. You have to earn the right to be contenders through the group stage and keep playing good cricket.”
Markram added that motivation remains high, but realism is key in a competition where momentum can shift quickly. “Any team can beat any team in this format. One or two special performances can break a game open. We’re here to win, but that’s not the only thing driving us.”
Team News for Canada v South Africa
South Africa arrive at the World Cup under the steady leadership of Aiden Markram with a squad built around power and physical presence. While injuries to Tony de Zorzi and Donovan Ferreira were a blow, the inclusion of Tristan Stubbs and Ryan Rickelton has arguably added even more explosiveness to the middle order.
Their bowling attack remains a major strength, with Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje providing genuine pace, supported by the left-arm variety and all-round value of Marco Jansen. With the bat, Dewald Brevis and David Miller will be key in supplying the acceleration that can turn strong positions into match-winning totals.
Canada, meanwhile, are led by Dilpreet Bajwa and have developed into a tactically astute and disciplined unit. Rather than relying on individual stars, they look to apply pressure through smart bowling plans and an energetic, never-say-die approach in the field.
All-rounders Harsh Thaker, Dilon Heyliger and Saad Bin Zafar form the backbone of the side, while young talent Yuvraj Samra adds an element of excitement, ensuring Canada are a team capable of testing more fancied opponents.
Predicted line-ups for Canada v South Africa
Canada: Dilpreet Bajwa (c), Navneet Dhaliwal, Nicholas Kirton, Ravinderpal Singh, Ajayveer Hundal, Harsh Thaker, Saad Bin Zafar, Dilon Heyliger, Kaleem Sana, Kanwarpal Tathgur, Shreyas Movva (wk).
South Africa: Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram (c), Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi.
How to watch Canada v South Africa
The T20 World Cup will be shown exclusively live in the UK on Sky Sports. You can stream it on the Sky Go app.
For coverage elsewhere in the world, click HERE for details of your local rights holder.
Prediction
This Group D clash appears to favour South Africa, whose experience, depth and proven ability in high-pressure tournaments give them a clear edge. Early breakthroughs from Kagiso Rabada and late-innings impact from David Miller could allow the Proteas to dictate the flow of the game.
Canada will look to stay competitive through discipline and a fearless approach, with Nicholas Kirton likely to play a key role in anchoring the innings. While they may test South Africa in short phases, the Proteas’ superior quality across all departments makes them strong favourites.