Aiden Markram walked out for the toss for South Africa ahead of the first ODI against India in Ranchi, confirming that regular captain Temba Bavuma is not playing today. The update raised immediate curiosity, as Bavuma was expected to lead the side in the series opener.
With Markram taking charge at the toss, South Africa will move forward under his leadership for this match, though an official reason for Bavuma’s absence has not been detailed yet.
Pitch and conditions
The boundary dimensions for today’s game are 67m and 65m square, with a 75m straight boundary. The surface is being used for the first time in international cricket after being relaid in 2023. It appears firm with a few cracks, supported by a layer of grass to keep it intact.
Experts Deep Dasgupta and Shaun Pollock noted in their pitch report that the relaid surface, built with Cuttack/Orissa black soil, should offer more carry and bounce compared to the previous wicket. They expect it to be a good batting track early on, though the footholes could bring spinners into the game as the match progresses.
Dew is also likely to play a significant role, making chasing a sensible option under the conditions.
