South Africa open their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Canada in Match No. 9 as both teams look to start the tournament with a positive result. The evening fixture at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad marks the first group-stage appearance for both sides in this edition of the World Cup.
Match details
Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Date: Monday, February 9, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM IST, 5:30 AM PST, 1:30 PM GMT
Tournament context and overview
This match serves as the opening game for both South Africa and Canada in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. For South Africa, the tournament represents another opportunity to push for a global title after finishing as runners-up in the previous edition. Canada, meanwhile, approach the competition aiming to test themselves against elite opposition and gain valuable experience at the highest level. Early group-stage points often shape qualification scenarios, making this contest significant despite the gap in experience between the two teams.
South Africa team overview
South Africa enter the tournament with strong momentum and a settled leadership group under Aiden Markram. The Proteas have enjoyed consistent success in T20 cricket in recent years, backed by a powerful batting lineup and a world-class pace attack. Their ability to score heavily in the top and middle order makes them one of the most dangerous sides in the competition.
Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton provide aggression and stability at the top, while Markram’s form at number three strengthens the batting core. The middle order, featuring Dewald Brevis, David Miller, and Tristan Stubbs, offers explosive finishing options. South Africa’s bowling attack remains a major asset, with Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje capable of controlling both powerplay and death overs, supported by Marco Jansen’s all-round impact and Keshav Maharaj’s spin control.
Canada team overview
Canada enter the match as underdogs but do so with growing confidence. They secured qualification through strong performances in the Americas qualifiers and gained valuable exposure during the 2024 T20 World Cup. While they lack the depth and experience of full-member nations, Canada have shown resilience and structure in recent tournaments.
Led by Dilpreet Bajwa, Canada’s batting relies on discipline and partnerships rather than outright power. Nicholas Kirton anchors the middle order and plays a key role in stabilising innings under pressure. The bowling unit focuses on consistency, with Saad Bin Zafar and Kaleem Sana expected to shoulder responsibility in controlling the scoring rate. Canada will aim to stay competitive by maximising fielding efficiency and capitalising on early opportunities.
Head-to-head record
South Africa and Canada have not faced each other in T20 internationals previously. This match marks their first head-to-head meeting in the format.
Pitch report: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
The Narendra Modi Stadium offers one of the best batting surfaces in India for T20 cricket. The pitch provides good pace and bounce, allowing batters to play through the line with confidence. Fast bowlers can extract some movement with the new ball, particularly in the first few overs. As the match progresses under lights, dew often becomes a factor, making bowling difficult for the defending side. Teams chasing have generally found conditions favourable, which could influence decisions at the toss.
Probable playing XIs
South Africa are likely to field Quinton de Kock as wicketkeeper, Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram as captain, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, and Anrich Nortje.
Canada’s probable XI includes Yuvraj Samra, Dilpreet Bajwa as captain, Navneet Dhaliwal, Nicholas Kirton, Shreyas Movva as wicketkeeper, Harsh Thaker, Shivam Sharma, Saad Bin Zafar, Jaskaran Singh Buttar, Dilon Heyliger, and Kaleem Sana.
Key players to watch
Aiden Markram stands out as South Africa’s key batter. His recent form across formats highlights his ability to handle both pace and spin while controlling the tempo of an innings. For Canada, Nicholas Kirton remains central to their batting plans. His experience and composure at the crease will be crucial if Canada are to post a competitive total or stay in contention during a chase.
Live streaming and broadcast information
In India, the match will be broadcast live on official Star Sports Network channels, with streaming available through the official web platform and mobile apps. Viewers in Pakistan can watch the match on authorised sports TV channels and official digital apps holding ICC rights. In the United Kingdom, the game will be available on official ICC broadcast partners via television and streaming applications. Australian audiences can follow the match on approved sports channels and their official apps. Global viewers can access live coverage through ICC-authorised broadcasters and official web and app platforms in their respective regions.
Match prediction
South Africa hold a clear advantage in terms of experience, squad depth, and adaptability to high-pressure situations. Canada’s structured approach and improving standards suggest they will look to compete through discipline rather than flair. Conditions in Ahmedabad are likely to favour the team chasing, and South Africa’s balanced combination positions them well regardless of the toss. If the Proteas execute their plans efficiently, they should control most phases of the match, though Canada will aim to use early breakthroughs to stay competitive.
