India faces a crucial test in the third T20I against South Africa in Dharamshala on Sunday, with the series tied 1-1. Following a comprehensive 51-run defeat in Mullanpur, the hosts must contend not only with a resurgent South African side but also biting cold conditions at the high-altitude HPCA Stadium.
With temperatures expected to drop into single digits, this match marks the first international fixture at the venue in December. While the picturesque ground is known for favoring batters due to the thin air, the chilly weather and potential dew factor present unique challenges for bowlers.
"There are no excuses at this level. It’s all about how mentally tough you are," said batter Tilak Varma, dismissing concerns about the conditions.
The spotlight is firmly on India's top order, particularly captain Suryakumar Yadav and vice-captain Shubman Gill. Suryakumar, whose last T20I fifty came over a year ago in October, is under pressure to regain his form ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Similarly, Gill has struggled for runs recently and underwent a lengthy net session under the guidance of batting coach Shitanshu Kotak on Saturday. A good knock from either would provide much-needed stability as India looks to avoid falling behind in the five-match series.
South Africa, fresh from a win where they posted 213/4, appears relaxed and ready. Head coach Shukri Conrad revealed that the team prioritized recovery and sightseeing over intense training, even cancelling a team meeting as players were hiking in the mountains. "Coming to a wonderful place like this is all part of the experience of playing in India," Conrad said.
He emphasized that the team has prepared for the dew factor by training with wet balls throughout the limited-overs leg. The visitors will likely rely on the explosive batting of Quinton de Kock and Donovan Ferreira, who dismantled India's death bowling in the previous game.
The bowling units on both sides face a stern examination. Dharamshala has historically favored chasing teams in night matches, with four out of five previous T20Is won by the side batting second. However, the high altitude (nearly 1,500 meters) means mistimed shots can still clear the ropes, and the pitch is expected to be a belter.
"The groundsmen here will tell you that this is an excellent wicket. I think we are expecting a lot of runs," Conrad noted. For India, Jasprit Bumrah will aim to bounce back after conceding a career-worst four sixes in a single T20I innings during the last match.
With the series balanced on a knife-edge, team combinations are likely to remain stable unless specific matchups dictate changes. India might stick with their playing XI, while South Africa could consider rotating their pace attack, potentially bringing back Anrich Nortje for Lutho Sipamla.
As the road to the home World Cup shortens, India will be keen to address their inconsistencies and handle the "uncontrollables" of weather and toss to regain the momentum in this spicy contest.
