27/2/2026, 11:41:58 am

Zimbabwe vs South Africa Match Preview 2026: Super 8 Playing XI, Pitch Report & Prediction

Zimbabwe take on South Africa in the 51st Match of Super 8 Group 1 at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi. Check probable playing XI, pitch report, weather update and match prediction for T20 World Cup 2026.

Zimbabwe face South Africa in the 51st Match of Super 8 Group 1 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. With semifinal qualification scenarios tightening, this clash could prove decisive for Group 1 standings.


Match Details

Match: Zimbabwe vs South Africa – 51st Match, Super 8 Group 1

Venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

Date: Sunday, 1 March 2026

Time: 3:00 PM Local / 3:00 PM IST

Live Telecast: Star Sports Network

Live Streaming: JioHotstar


Team Scenario

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe have shown resilience throughout the tournament, pulling off competitive performances against stronger teams. However, consistency has been their biggest challenge. To upset South Africa, their top order must deliver a strong start while their bowlers need early breakthroughs in the powerplay.

South Africa

South Africa have looked one of the most balanced sides in the Super 8 stage. With explosive batting and disciplined bowling, they are strong contenders for semifinal qualification. A win here would significantly boost their chances of finishing at the top of Group 1.


Probable Playing XI

Zimbabwe Probable XI

Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Brian Bennett, Dion Myers, Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Brand Evans, Tashinga Musekiwa, Tinotenda Maposa, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava

South Africa Probable XI

Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Corbin Bosch


Pitch Report – Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

The Delhi surface traditionally supports high-scoring encounters in T20 cricket. Batters can take advantage of shorter boundaries, especially during the powerplay. Pacers may get some assistance early on, but as the match progresses, spinners often become effective in the middle overs.

A first-innings total of 170–185 is considered competitive at this venue.


Weather Report

Warm afternoon conditions are expected in Delhi with temperatures around 28–32°C. There is no significant rain forecast, so a full 20-over match is likely.


Key Players to Watch

Zimbabwe: Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl, Blessing Muzarabani

South Africa: Aiden Markram, David Miller, Kagiso Rabada


Key Battle

Sikandar Raza vs Kagiso Rabada – Zimbabwe’s captain and main all-round threat against South Africa’s pace spearhead could define the momentum of the contest.


Match Prediction

South Africa enter the match with stronger depth in both batting and bowling. Zimbabwe will need an exceptional all-round performance to challenge the Proteas. If South Africa’s top order fires, they hold a clear edge in this contest.

Prediction: South Africa favourites to win this Super 8 clash.