South Africa and West Indies meet for the final time in the T20I series at Johannesburg, with the hosts aiming to seal a comprehensive whitewash. After two dominant run chases, the Proteas enter the third T20I brimming with confidence, while West Indies look to restore pride with a stronger all-round display.
Match details
Match: South Africa vs West Indies 3rd T20I
Series: West Indies tour of South Africa T20I Series 2026
Date: Saturday January 31 2026
Venue: The Wanderers Stadium Johannesburg
Start time: 09:30 PM IST, 09:00 PM PST, 04:00 PM GMT
Teams: South Africa vs West Indies
Series Recap and Team Overview
South Africa have dominated the series through aggressive batting and calm chases under pressure. In the opening T20I at Paarl, they chased down 174 with ease, finishing the job in 17.5 overs. The second T20I in Centurion raised the bar even higher, as South Africa successfully hunted down a daunting 222-run target with seven wickets in hand and 15 balls to spare. That performance underlined their depth, intent, and ability to absorb pressure in high-scoring encounters.
West Indies, despite posting competitive totals in both matches, have struggled to control the game with the ball. Their batting unit has shown promise, but inconsistent bowling plans and poor execution at the death have cost them heavily. Heading into the final game, the visitors need a sharper tactical approach, particularly against South Africa’s top order, if they are to avoid a series sweep.
Key Players and Form Guide
Quinton de Kock has been the standout performer of the series. Rested for the opening match, the left-hander returned in emphatic fashion in the second T20I, smashing a blistering century off just 43 deliveries. His form has continued from the SA20, where he finished as the leading run-scorer, and his presence at the top has transformed South Africa’s batting approach.
Kagiso Rabada remains South Africa’s key weapon with the new ball. His ability to strike early and maintain intensity in high-scoring games makes him vital at a venue like the Wanderers. Aiden Markram’s calm leadership and all-round contributions have also played a central role in South Africa’s control of the series.
For West Indies, Shai Hope continues to anchor the batting lineup, while Brandon King and Rovman Powell provide firepower. Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd carry responsibility as all-rounders, both with the ball in crucial overs and with finishing duties. The visitors will need a collective bowling effort, led by Akeal Hosein and Jayden Seales, to challenge South Africa’s momentum.
Head-to-Head Record
South Africa and West Indies have now faced each other 28 times in T20 internationals. The rivalry stands perfectly balanced, with both teams recording 14 victories each. South Africa, however, have gained the upper hand in the most recent encounters, including the ongoing series, which has tilted momentum firmly in their favour.
Pitch and Conditions Report
The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg is renowned for producing high-scoring T20 contests. The surface offers true bounce and pace, allowing batters to play through the line with confidence. Fast bowlers can find movement with the new ball, especially under lights, but once batters are set, run containment becomes difficult. Captains often prefer chasing at this venue, given the consistent nature of the pitch and the pressure it places on bowlers in the second innings.
Probable Playing XIs
South Africa probable XI
Aiden Markram captain, Quinton de Kock wicketkeeper, Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs, Corbin Bosch, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka
West Indies probable XI
Shai Hope captain and wicketkeeper, Brandon King, Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford, Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd, Roston Chase, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Matthew Forde, Jayden Seales
Live Streaming and Broadcast Information
In India, the South Africa vs West Indies T20I series will be broadcast live on JioStar Network channels, with digital streaming available on the JioHotstar app and website. Viewers in Pakistan can watch the match on official sports television channels and approved streaming platforms. In the United Kingdom, the series will be available through licensed cricket broadcasters and their digital services. Australian audiences can follow the match on major sports networks and associated streaming apps. Global viewers can access live coverage via regional broadcast partners and official cricket streaming platforms.
Match Prediction and Analysis
South Africa enter the final T20I with superior form, home advantage, and a settled combination that has delivered under pressure. Their batting depth and clarity in run chases have separated them from West Indies in this series. West Indies possess the firepower to challenge any side, but unless their bowling unit shows marked improvement, containing South Africa at the Wanderers will remain a difficult task. Based on current momentum and execution, South Africa start the match as favourites to complete a series whitewash.
