IND vs SA 1st T20I: Hardik's Litmus Test, Sundar Uncertain, Gill-Abhishek Open

• India will face South Africa in a 5-match T20I series, starting Tuesday, led by Suryakumar Yadav.
• The series is a crucial final preparation stage for India ahead of next year's T20 World Cup.
• A red-soil pitch in Cuttack is expected to favor pacers, potentially leading to Shivam Dube's inclusion over Washington Sundar.
• Hardik Pandya returns to the squad, enhancing batting depth and providing an additional fast-bowling option.
• India's probable XI for the 1st T20I includes Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Verma, Sanju Samson, Hardik Pandya, and Kuldeep Yadav.

Why It Matters: India's T20I series against SA is a critical test for World Cup squad selection.