The countdown to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is nearly over, and defending champions India will get their final preparation underway today as they face South Africa in a high-profile warm-up match in Navi Mumbai.
With the tournament beginning on February 7 across India and Sri Lanka, this clash at the DY Patil Stadium offers both sides a last competitive opportunity to fine-tune combinations, test strategies, and assess match readiness before the league stage begins.
India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, come into the fixture riding strong momentum after dominant recent series wins, while Aiden Markram’s South Africa will be eager to settle into rhythm ahead of the World Cup.
India vs South Africa Warm-Up Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | India vs South Africa (T20 World Cup 2026 Warm-Up) |
| Date | Wednesday, February 4, 2026 |
| Time | 7:00 PM IST |
| Toss | 6:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai |
| Event | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Warm-Up Fixture |
Why This Match Matters
Although warm-up matches are not officially recorded in ICC statistics, they remain crucial in a World Cup build-up.
For India, this game provides:
- A final look at batting order combinations
- A chance for pacers to regain rhythm
- Match practice for key players returning to form
India will also be encouraged by captain Suryakumar Yadav’s recent consistency, alongside the return of Ishan Kishan, who has impressed strongly since making his comeback.
For South Africa, this is their only warm-up outing, making it even more important as they prepare for tournament conditions in the subcontinent.
Where to Watch India vs South Africa Live?
Live Telecast in India
The India vs South Africa warm-up match will be broadcast live on:
- Star Sports Network
Live Streaming in India
Fans can also stream the match live online via:
- Jio Hotstar app and website
Match Coverage & Highlights
Video highlights will be available across ICC’s official digital platforms, including:
- ICC.tv
India Squad for Warm-Up Match
India’s warm-up squad features a strong core of World Cup stars:
Suryakumar Yadav (c), Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakaravarthy, Harshit Rana, Abhishek Sharma
South Africa Squad for Warm-Up Match
South Africa, led by Aiden Markram, bring a powerful mix of experience and pace:
Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock, David Miller, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, Ryan Rickelton and others
FAQs – India vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 Warm-Up Match
Q1: When is the India vs South Africa warm-up match?
The match will be played on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
Q2: What time does IND vs SA start?
The game begins at 7:00 PM IST, with the toss at 6:30 PM IST.
Q3: Where is the match being played?
It will take place at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai.
Q4: Which TV channel will telecast the match live?
The match will be televised live on the Star Sports Network.
Q5: Where can I watch the live stream of IND vs SA?
Fans can stream the match live on Jio Hotstar.
Q6: Is this India’s only warm-up match before the World Cup?
Yes, this is India’s only scheduled warm-up fixture before the tournament begins.
Q7: Are warm-up matches counted in official ICC records?
No, warm-up matches are not officially registered in ICC record books.
Final Word
While it may only be a warm-up fixture, India vs South Africa promises to be a high-intensity contest between two heavyweight sides.
With World Cup pressure around the corner, both teams will be eager to hit top gear before the real action begins on February 7.
