India vs South Africa Prediction: Who Will Win IND vs SA 4th T20 Match on 17th December 2025?
The India vs South Africa prediction for the 4th T20I of the 2025 series carries huge significance as the series reaches a decisive phase in Lucknow. India currently lead the five-match series 2–1 and will be eager to close out the contest with a win at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium. South Africa, however, have been competitive throughout the series and will look to bounce back strongly to keep the contest alive heading into the final match. The Ekana surface, known for its two-paced nature, adds another intriguing layer to this encounter.
India come into this match with confidence after a dominant seven-wicket victory in the third T20I, where their bowlers dismantled South Africa for just 117. The powerplay bowling from Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana set the tone, while Varun Chakaravarthy’s control in the middle overs strangled scoring opportunities. With the bat, Abhishek Sharma once again provided explosive momentum at the top, continuing his impressive run of form in the shortest format.
South Africa, on the other hand, will be disappointed with their batting collapse in the previous game. Apart from Aiden Markram’s composed half-century, the Proteas struggled to handle swing and variation. That said, they possess the firepower to bounce back, with players like Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, and Marco Jansen capable of turning games in a matter of overs.
With conditions expected to favour bowlers early and stroke-makers later, tactical adaptability will be key. India’s depth, home advantage, and superior spin resources make them favourites, but South Africa’s explosiveness ensures a competitive contest.
- India lead the series 2–1 and can seal it with a win
- Ekana pitch expected to demand smart batting and variation in bowling
- Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakaravarthy key for India
- South Africa rely on Markram, Stubbs, and Jansen for impact
Match Details
| Match | India vs South Africa, 4th T20I |
|---|---|
| Date | Wednesday, 17 December 2025 |
| Time | 7:00 PM (IST) |
| Venue | Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow |
| Series | South Africa Tour of India 2025 |
Team Preview
India Team Preview
India responded emphatically after losing the second T20I, delivering one of their most complete performances of the series in the third match. The bowlers laid the foundation by exploiting early movement and using the Ekana surface intelligently. Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana were relentless in the powerplay, attacking the stumps and forcing errors. Varun Chakaravarthy then took control in the middle overs, using subtle variations to choke South Africa’s scoring rate.
The batting unit remains aggressive but slightly inconsistent, something the team management would like to address before the series concludes. Abhishek Sharma has been India’s biggest positive, repeatedly providing explosive starts. His ability to score 30-odd runs at a strike rate above 180 puts immediate pressure on opposition bowlers. Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav have not fully clicked yet but possess the class to deliver when it matters.
Tilak Varma has shown maturity in rotating strike and building innings through the middle overs, while Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube add finishing power. Jitesh Sharma’s role as wicketkeeper-batter gives India flexibility down the order.
In bowling, uncertainty remains over Jasprit Bumrah’s availability. If he returns, India’s attack becomes even more formidable. With Axar Patel ruled out, Washington Sundar or Kuldeep Yadav are expected to support Varun Chakaravarthy, ensuring spin dominance. Overall, India appear well balanced and tactically strong at home.
South Africa Team Preview
South Africa will be keen to put the disappointment of the third T20I behind them. Their batting collapse exposed vulnerability against swing and disciplined spin bowling. Captain Aiden Markram was the lone bright spot with a well-compiled 61, showing composure under pressure.
The top order will once again rely on Quinton de Kock and Markram to provide stability. Tristan Stubbs remains a crucial figure in the middle order, capable of accelerating while batting deep. Dewald Brevis brings fearless intent, while David Miller or Donovan Ferreira add experience and power in the lower middle order.
South Africa’s bowling unit remains competitive. Anrich Nortje and Lungi Ngidi offer pace and bounce, while Marco Jansen’s all-round impact has been impressive throughout the series. His ability to strike early and contribute quick runs makes him a key player. Spin options remain limited compared to India, which could be a disadvantage on a slowing Ekana pitch.
South Africa have the talent to challenge India, but consistency with the bat will be critical if they are to force a series decider.
Team Squads
India Squad
Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Jitesh Sharma, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana
South Africa Squad
Reeza Hendricks, Quinton de Kock, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Donovan Ferreira, Marco Jansen, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, Ottneil Baartman, Lutho Sipamla
Probable Playing XI
India:
Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Washington Sundar/Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah/Harshit Rana
South Africa:
Reeza Hendricks, Quinton de Kock (wk), Aiden Markram (c), Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, Donovan Ferreira/David Miller, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Anrich Nortje/Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi, Ottneil Baartman
India vs South Africa Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Aiden Markram |
| All-Rounders | Hardik Pandya (C), Marco Jansen (VC), Shivam Dube |
| Wicketkeeper | Quinton de Kock |
| Bowlers | Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Anrich Nortje, Kuldeep Yadav |
Fantasy players should focus on all-rounders and top-order batters due to Ekana’s demanding conditions. Hardik Pandya is an ideal captain choice, offering points with both bat and ball. Marco Jansen is a strong vice-captain option because of his wicket-taking ability and lower-order hitting.
Abhishek Sharma is a must-pick due to his explosive powerplay scoring, while Suryakumar Yadav has the class to dominate once settled. Aiden Markram remains South Africa’s most reliable batter.
In bowling, Varun Chakaravarthy is expected to be highly effective on this surface. Arshdeep Singh’s new-ball swing and death-over accuracy make him valuable. Kuldeep Yadav adds spin variety, while Nortje’s pace can fetch key wickets.
Captain Options: Hardik Pandya, Marco Jansen
Vice-Captain Options: Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram
Players to Avoid: Reeza Hendricks, Ottneil Baartman
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match (Why?)
India are the favourite team in today’s match due to their superior squad balance, home advantage, and consistent performances throughout the series. Leading the series 2–1, India have shown greater adaptability to conditions, especially on slower surfaces like the Ekana Stadium.
Their bowling attack, led by Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakaravarthy, has been highly effective in applying pressure during powerplay and middle overs. With the bat, India possess explosive starts through Abhishek Sharma and depth in the middle order with Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, and Shivam Dube.
In contrast, South Africa have relied heavily on individual efforts, particularly from Aiden Markram, while their batting unit has struggled collectively against spin. India’s stronger spin resources, better death bowling, and familiarity with home conditions give them a clear edge. If India maintain discipline, they are well placed to dominate and seal the series in this encounter.
India T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | No Result | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 262 | 180 | 73 | 8 | 1 |
India have one of the best win percentages in T20I history, reflecting depth and consistency.
South Africa T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | No Result | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 213 | 115 | 95 | 3 | 0 |
South Africa remain competitive in T20Is but lack consistency against top teams away from home.
India vs South Africa Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | India Won | South Africa Won | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34 | 20 | 13 | 1 |
India hold a clear advantage in T20I encounters against South Africa, winning 20 of 34 matches. At home, India have dominated most contests, using spin-friendly conditions effectively. South Africa have remained competitive but often struggle against India’s varied bowling attack on slower pitches.
Also Check: India vs South Africa Head to Head in T20
Pitch Report – Ekana Cricket Stadium
The pitch at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium is traditionally slow and two-paced, making stroke play challenging early in the innings. Batters who spend time at the crease can score, but reckless hitting is often punished. Spinners and bowlers who vary pace enjoy success, especially during the middle overs. Seamers with cutters and slower balls are effective at the death. Teams batting first usually prefer to post a score between 180 and 190, which is considered competitive here. Chasing can be tricky if the pitch slows further under lights.
Weather Report
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 22–25°C |
| Humidity | Around 55% |
| Rain Chance | 0% |
| Wind | Light breeze |
The weather in Lucknow is expected to remain clear and pleasant throughout the match. There is no forecast of rain, and moderate evening conditions should allow a full uninterrupted game.
Broadcast Details
The India vs South Africa 4th T20I 2025 will be broadcast live on JioHotstar & Star Sports Network, offering high-quality live streaming, ball-by-ball commentary, expert analysis, and match highlights. Fans can also follow real-time scores and updates through digital platforms and mobile applications throughout the match.
Toss Prediction
The toss will play a crucial role at Ekana due to the nature of the surface. Teams generally prefer batting first to put runs on the board and apply scoreboard pressure, as chasing becomes difficult on a slowing pitch. India are predicted to win the toss and are likely to opt to bat first, aiming to post a competitive total around the 180-run mark.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
For India, Abhishek Sharma is the most probable top scorer due to his aggressive powerplay approach and current form. If he gets going, he can change the game quickly. Suryakumar Yadav remains another key batter capable of dominating spinners once set. In bowling, Varun Chakaravarthy is expected to be the biggest threat, as his variations suit Ekana conditions perfectly. Arshdeep Singh could also strike early with the new ball.
For South Africa, Aiden Markram is the most reliable batter and likely to anchor the innings. Tristan Stubbs provides middle-order acceleration and finishing ability. With the ball, Marco Jansen is South Africa’s most impactful bowler, capable of taking wickets with bounce and contributing late-order runs, while Anrich Nortje offers pace-driven breakthroughs.
Match Prediction
Based on current form, home advantage, and squad balance, India are expected to win the 4th T20I against South Africa. While the Proteas possess individual match-winners, India’s superior spin attack and deeper batting lineup should prove decisive. If India execute their plans effectively, they are likely to seal the series in Lucknow.
Our Winner Prediction: India Will Win
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
FAQ – IND vs SA 4th T20
Who will win India vs South Africa 4th T20I?
India are favourites due to form, conditions, and home advantage.
Where is the 4th T20I being played?
At Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow.
What is a good score at Ekana Stadium?
A total of 180–190 runs is considered competitive.
Which Indian player is most in form?
Abhishek Sharma has been India’s most impactful batter.
Who is South Africa’s key player?
Aiden Markram is South Africa’s most reliable batter.
Will spin play a major role in this match?
Yes, spinners are expected to dominate on the slow Ekana surface.
Is dew expected to affect the match?
Dew is usually minimal, making batting second challenging.
Who is likely to be Player of the Match?
Varun Chakaravarthy or Abhishek Sharma are strong contenders.
Can South Africa level the series?
It will be difficult, but a strong batting performance could keep them competitive.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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