Has India Outperformed South Africa in T20Is? Dale Steyn Weighs In
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Synopsis
In a thrilling India-South Africa T20I series, Dale Steyn praises India for their superior performance. With the series poised for an exciting conclusion, both teams are set to battle for glory in the final match. Will India confirm their dominance, or can South Africa turn the tide?
Key Takeaways
- Dale Steyn praises India's performance in the T20I series.
- The series is currently at a critical juncture, with potential outcomes still in play.
- India's bowling consistency has been a key factor in their success.
- South Africa has shown moments of brilliance but needs to sustain momentum.
- Emerging players like Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma are making significant impacts.
New Delhi, Dec 18 (NationPress) The ongoing India-South Africa series is highly competitive, with two potential outcomes leading up to the final game: either South Africa leveling the series at 2-2 or India clinching a 3-1 victory. Former Proteas fast bowler Dale Steyn believes that India has demonstrated superior performance thus far in the three matches played.
The fourth T20I was abandoned on Wednesday due to thick fog in Lucknow. This postponement means the series will be decided in the concluding match, set for Friday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Steyn reflected on the performances of the home team and South Africa’s overall tour of India, commending their achievements in various formats while also noting instances where they narrowly missed chances.
“I think it’s been a fantastic series, and South Africa has likely surpassed expectations. Winning the Test series was remarkable, and they were quite competitive in the ODIs. They might feel they let the first ODI slip after winning the toss and losing quick wickets while chasing. Had they won that match, they could have concluded the ODI series 2–1. That said, out of the three T20Is so far, India has been the superior team,” Steyn stated on JioStar.
“They bowled South Africa out cheaply in one match, conceded runs in another, but then dominated again in Dharamshala. If India secures the series, I would say well played — they would earn it. However, I’m hopeful South Africa can turn it around. They’ve had a remarkable tour,” Steyn added.
India’s consistency during critical moments, especially with their bowling, has kept them ahead in the T20 format, while South Africa has shown flashes of brilliance but struggled to maintain momentum across matches.
Steyn also expressed admiration for India’s emerging batting talents, specifically mentioning Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma for their contrasting yet effective styles. He remarked, “I recall Shubman Gill scoring heavily against SRH when I was the bowling coach there. He played beautifully. Even when on the losing side, you enjoy watching someone like him bat. He makes it seem effortless — elegant and pleasing to the eye.
“Abhishek Sharma hits numerous sixes and plays fearless shots, but I personally relish watching a classical cover drive or someone stepping down the wicket and hitting straight back over the top. When Gill gets going, it’s a treat to watch.”
With the fourth match being washed out, both teams will now concentrate on the series decider, where India aims to assert their dominance in T20Is and South Africa hopes to finish a memorable tour on a high note.
Point of View
The competition between India and South Africa has reached an exciting crescendo. While India has shown remarkable prowess, South Africa’s effort throughout the tour cannot be overlooked. It's a compelling narrative of skill, determination, and the unpredictability of cricket.
NationPress
18/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the India-South Africa T20I series?
The series is currently 2-1 in favor of India, with the fourth T20I abandoned due to weather conditions.
Who is Dale Steyn and what did he say about the series?
Dale Steyn is a former South African fast bowler who believes India has been the superior team in the series so far.
When and where is the final match of the series scheduled?
The final T20I is scheduled for Friday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
What has been South Africa’s performance in the series?
South Africa has exceeded expectations, winning the Test series and being competitive in the ODIs, though they have struggled in T20Is.
Who are the standout players for India according to Dale Steyn?
Dale Steyn highlighted Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma as key young talents in the Indian batting lineup.
