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Xtra Time Web Desk: South Africa and India are set to face off in the first T20I of their four-match series on Friday, November 8, at Kingsmead in Durban. This clash has generated much excitement, as it serves as a rematch of the T20 World Cup 2024 final, where India emerged victorious by seven runs, clinching their second T20 World Cup trophy. With the match taking place on their home turf, South Africa will be eager to avenge their narrow defeat.

Weather conditions, however, could play a part, with forecasts indicating a 40% chance of rain from 4 p.m. onward. This raises the likelihood of interruptions or even a shortened game.

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For India, this series marks a new era in T20I cricket following the retirements of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Suryakumar Yadav, who has taken up the captaincy, began his tenure with an impressive 3-0 series wins over both Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. He also led India to a 4-1 series victory against Australia in late 2023 and a 1-1 tie against South Africa. Having captained India in 13 matches, Suryakumar has secured 11 wins, showcasing his leadership potential.

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The series will likely feature several promising youngsters, including Vijaykumar Vyshak, Yash Dayal, and Ramandeep Singh, who are eager to make their mark on the international stage.

India Squad: Sanju Samson (wk), Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Avesh Khan, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Yash Dayal, Ravi Bishnoi, Ramandeep Singh , Jitesh Sharma

South Africa Squad: Ryan Rickelton (wk), Aiden Markram (c), Reeza Hendricks, Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee, Nqabayomzi Peter, Ottneil Baartman, Donovan Ferreira, Mihlali Mpongwana, Patrick Kruger