India National Cricket Team vs South Africa National Cricket Team Timeline – Historic Records, Star Players & Complete Head-to-Head

The rivalry between the India national cricket team and the South Africa national cricket team has produced some of cricket’s most thrilling moments since 1991. This clash isn’t just about two teams competing, it’s about pride, passion, and performances that define careers. When India faces South Africa, expect fireworks.

The India national cricket team vs South Africa national cricket team timeline stretches across three decades now. Both nations have tasted sweet victories and bitter defeats. South Africa returned to international cricket in 1991 after the apartheid era ended. Their first opponent? India. That meeting sparked a rivalry that still burns bright today.

Recent matches prove this contest remains unpredictable. South Africa shocked India by winning the 2025 Test series 2-0 on Indian soil, a rare feat that sent shockwaves through cricket. India bounced back hard in the ODI series, clinching it 2-1 with dominant performances. The T20I series currently stands level at 1-1, with three matches left to decide the winner. This back-and-forth perfectly captures what makes this rivalry special.

India vs South Africa Cricket Timeline (Complete History)

The India vs South Africa cricket timeline began in 1991 and evolved through distinct phases. Each era brought new heroes, memorable battles, and shifting power dynamics. Let’s walk through this fascinating journey that transformed both teams into cricketing powerhouses.

Understanding this timeline helps fans appreciate how the rivalry matured. Early contests were one-sided. Middle years brought competitive balance. Modern clashes? Absolutely unpredictable. That’s cricket evolution at its finest.

Early Encounters (1991–2000)

South Africa’s return to international cricket came after decades of isolation. The apartheid boycott had kept them out since 1970. When they returned, India was among their first opponents. History was being written with every delivery.

Year / Event	Format	Venue	Result	Key Performers	Why This Match Matters
1991 World Cup – First ODI Meeting	ODI	Eden Gardens, Kolkata	India won by 3 wickets	Kepler Wessels (85 runs for SA)	Marked South Africa’s first World Cup match after readmission to international cricket and the beginning of the IND–SA ODI rivalry
1992–93 South Africa Tour of India	Test Series (4 Matches)	India & Durban	SA won 1–0 (3 Draws, 1 Win)	Kepler Wessels (SA captain), Pravin Amre (century on debut)	South Africa’s official return to Test cricket, showing competitiveness despite long isolation
1996 Eden Gardens Test	Test	Eden Gardens, Kolkata	South Africa won by 329 runs	Gary Kirsten (103 & 133), Allan Donald, Shaun Pollock	Known as the “Eden Gardens Massacre”, SA’s biggest win vs India and a symbol of their mid-90s dominance
1996–97 India Tour of South Africa	Test Series	South Africa	SA won 2–0	Allan Donald, Shaun Pollock, Sachin Tendulkar	Established South Africa as a formidable home side, with pace-friendly conditions overwhelming India
1999 World Cup Group Match	ODI	Hove, England	South Africa won	Jacques Kallis (96), Sachin Tendulkar	A high-pressure World Cup clash highlighting South Africa’s strong big-match temperament

Key takeaway? South Africa dominated these early years. They had superior bowling attacks and experienced players. India was building but hadn’t found the winning formula yet.

Competitive Era (2001–2010)

This decade transformed the rivalry. India stopped being pushovers. They started winning crucial matches. The psychological balance shifted dramatically during these ten years.

Year / Event	Format	Venue	Result	Key Performers	Why This Match Matters
2000 South Africa Tour of India	Test Series	India	South Africa won 2–0	Lance Klusener, Nicky Boje	South Africa’s first-ever Test series win in India, breaking India’s long-standing home dominance
2001 ICC KnockOut Final	ODI (Final)	Johannesburg	India won by 51 runs	Sourav Ganguly (141*), Zaheer Khan (4/42)	India’s first major ICC ODI title, a psychological turning point against South Africa
2006 Johannesburg Test	Test	New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg	India won by 123 runs	Sreesanth (5/40), VVS Laxman, Sachin Tendulkar	India’s first Test victory in South Africa, ending a 13-year drought
2007 ICC T20 World Cup	T20I	South Africa	India won	RP Singh (4/13)	Showed India’s early dominance in T20 cricket, setting the tone for future T20 success
2010 Gwalior ODI – Double Century	ODI	Gwalior	India won by 153 runs	Sachin Tendulkar (200* off 147 balls)	First double century in ODI history, a moment that redefined batting limits

This era proved India could match South Africa anywhere. Home or away, Test cricket or limited-overs India competed fiercely. The rivalry had found true balance.

Modern Rivalry (2011–2020)

The 2010s belonged to both teams equally. Home advantage mattered significantly. Away victories became rare treasures. Individual brilliance often decided tight contests during this competitive decade.

Year / Event	Format	Venue	Result	Key Performers	Why This Match or Series Matters
2010 India vs South Africa Test Series	Test Series (3 Matches)	India (Nagpur included)	Series drawn 1–1	Hashim Amla, MS Dhoni	Reflected a balanced rivalry, with neither side able to dominate despite strong individual performances
2013 South Africa Tour of India	Test Series (2 Matches)	India	India won 1–0	Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja	Reinforced India’s home Test supremacy, especially through spin-friendly conditions
2015 India Tour of South Africa	ODI Series	South Africa	India won 3–2	Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan	India’s first-ever bilateral ODI series win in South Africa, proving growth in overseas limited-overs cricket
2015 Wankhede ODI – 438 Run Thriller	ODI	Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai	India won (tie on runs, won on wickets)	Rohit Sharma (150), AB de Villiers (119), Quinton de Kock (109)	One of the highest-scoring ODIs ever, showcasing peak batting power from both teams
2015 & 2019 SA Tours of India	Test Series	India	India won 3–0 (both series)	Virat Kohli, Ashwin, Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav	Back-to-back home Test whitewashes, cementing India’s dominance on spinning tracks
2018 India Tour of South Africa	Test Series	South Africa	South Africa won 2–1	Kagiso Rabada, Vernon Philander, Virat Kohli	Highlighted South Africa’s continued strength at home, driven by elite fast bowling
Overall 2010s Rivalry Trend	All Formats	India & South Africa	Format-dependent dominance	Multiple	India ruled home Tests and T20Is, SA held firm at home, while ODIs became highly competitive

Recent Clashes & Current Form (2021–2025)

Recent years brought unexpected twists. Home advantages got challenged. New stars emerged while legends continued performing. The rivalry entered its most unpredictable phase yet.

Year / Event	Format	Venue	Result	Key Performers	Why This Match or Series Matters
2021–22 South Africa Tour of India	Test Series (3 Matches)	India	South Africa won 2–1	Dean Elgar, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi	India’s first home Test series defeat in years, marking a rare collapse of their home fortress
2022 India Tour of South Africa	T20I Series	South Africa	Series drawn 2–2	Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, David Miller	Demonstrated evenly matched white-ball rivalry, with momentum swinging both ways
2024 ICC T20 World Cup Final	T20I (Final)	Barbados	India won by 7 runs	Virat Kohli (76), Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh	Another World Cup heartbreak for South Africa, while India delivered under extreme pressure

2025 South Africa Tour of India – Drama Continues:

Test Series (SA Won 2-0):

ODI Series (India Won 2-1):

Match	Date	Venue	Result	Key Performers
1st ODI	Nov 30	Ranchi	India won by 17 runs	Shreyas Iyer (78)
2nd ODI	Dec 3	Raipur	South Africa won by 4 wickets	Rassie van der Dussen (109*)
3rd ODI	Dec 6	Visakhapatnam	India won by 9 wickets	Shubman Gill (130*)

T20I Series (Currently 1-1):

Match	Date	Venue	Result	Key Performers
1st T20I	Dec 9	Cuttack	India won by 101 runs	Tilak Varma (120)
2nd T20I	Dec 11	New Chandigarh	South Africa won by 51 runs	Tristan Stubbs (85)

This recent form shows neither team dominates. Every series brings fresh drama. The India national cricket team vs South Africa national cricket team timeline keeps getting more exciting.

India vs South Africa Head-to-Head Record (All Formats)

The head-to-head record between these cricket giants reveals fascinating patterns. South Africa edges ahead in Test matches. India dominates T20 internationals. ODI cricket remains South Africa’s strength but the gap is narrowing fast.

These statistics tell stories of home dominance and away struggles. They highlight individual brilliance and team resilience. Numbers don’t lie, this rivalry is incredibly balanced overall.

Test Matches – H2H Stats

Test cricket between India and South Africa has produced some of the format’s finest contests. Long battles, turning pitches, and pace-friendly tracks have all played their part. SA holds a slight edge but India has closed the gap recently.

Statistic	Details
Total Matches	47
India Wins	16
South Africa Wins	20
Draws	11
Series Wins – India	4
Series Wins – SA	6

Key Test Records:

• Highest Team Total (India): 643/6 declared at Kolkata (2009-10)
• Highest Team Total (SA): 558/6 declared at Centurion (2010-11)
• Lowest Team Total (India): 66 at Durban (1996-97)
• Lowest Team Total (SA): 79 at Nagpur (2015-16)

South Africa’s Test record against India looks better on paper. However, India’s recent home dominance (3-0 sweeps in 2015 and 2019) has swung momentum. SA’s 2025 victory in India proves they can still shock the hosts when conditions suit.

ODI Matches – H2H Stats

ODI cricket has given fans countless thrillers between these teams. High-scoring chases, dramatic collapses, and last-ball finishes this format has everything. South Africa leads the ODI head-to-head but India keeps fighting back.

Statistic	Details
Total Matches	94
India Wins	42
South Africa Wins	52
No Result	0
World Cup Meetings	5

Key ODI Records:

• Highest Team Total (India): 438/4 at Wankhede Stadium (2015)
• Highest Team Total (SA): 438/4 at Wankhede Stadium (2015) – same match!
• Highest Individual Score (India): 200* by Sachin Tendulkar at Gwalior (2010)
• Highest Individual Score (SA): 175 by Hashim Amla at Durban (2013)

India has won crucial ODI matches in recent years. Their 2025 series victory (2-1) shows improving competitiveness. Virat Kohli’s consistency against SA (1806 runs) has been vital. His highest score of 160* came to Adelaide during the 2015 World Cup.

T20I Matches – H2H Stats

T20I cricket tilts heavily toward India. They’ve mastered the shortest format against South Africa. The 2024 T20 World Cup Final victory was the cherry on top of India’s T20I dominance.

Statistic	Details
Total Matches	32
India Wins	19
South Africa Wins	13
No Result	0
T20 World Cup Meetings	3

Key T20I Records:

• Highest Team Total (India): 237/3 at Johannesburg (2018)
• Highest Team Total (SA): 227/3 at Johannesburg (2018)
• Highest Individual Score (India): 122 by Suresh Raina at St. Lucia (2010)
• Highest Individual Score (SA): 106* by David Miller at Dharamsala (2015)

India’s T20I record shines brightly. Arshdeep Singh has become SA’s nemesis with 20+ wickets. Suryakumar Yadav’s 360-degree batting style troubles SA bowlers. The format suits India’s aggressive approach perfectly.

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Notable Records & Milestones in IND vs SA Rivalry

Individual brilliance defines great rivalries. The India vs South Africa cricket contests have produced record-breaking performances across all formats. These milestones become part of cricket folklore passed down through generations.

From Sachin’s double century to Kumble’s wicket hauls, these records showcase extraordinary talent. Players rise to the occasion when facing quality opposition. That’s what makes this rivalry statistically rich.

Test Cricket Records

Test cricket rewards patience, skill, and mental toughness. The IND vs SA Test matches have seen batting masterclasses and bowling brilliance that textbooks should study.

Batting Records:

• Most Runs Overall: Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 1,741 runs in 25 Tests
• Highest Individual Score: Virender Sehwag (India) – 319 at Chennai (2007-08)
• Most Centuries: Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 7 centuries
• Best Average (Min 500 runs): Hashim Amla (SA) – 61.02 average
• Most Double Centuries: Virender Sehwag (India) – 2 double tons

Bowling Records:

• Most Wickets Overall: Anil Kumble (India) – 84 wickets in 20 Tests
• Best Bowling Figures (Innings): Imran Tahir (SA) – 7/59 at Johannesburg (2013-14)
• Best Bowling Figures (Match): Dale Steyn (SA) – 11/60 at Nagpur (2009-10)
• Best Average (Min 30 wickets): Dale Steyn (SA) – 23.16 average
• Most Five-Wicket Hauls: Anil Kumble (India) – 7 five-fors

Partnership Records:

• Highest Partnership (Any Wicket): 331 runs – Virender Sehwag & Sachin Tendulkar for 2nd wicket at Chennai (2007-08)
• Best Opening Stand: 254 runs – Virender Sehwag & Wasim Jaffer at Kanpur (2007-08)

Anil Kumble remains India’s greatest wicket-taker against SA. His leg-spin bamboozled SA batsmen on turning tracks. Dale Steyn’s reverse swing and pace terrorized Indian batting lineups. These bowling giants respected each other’s crafts deeply.

ODI Cricket Records

ODI cricket against South Africa has given India some of their proudest moments. The records reflect high-scoring encounters and individual genius that changed match outcomes dramatically.

Batting Records:

• Most Runs Overall: Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 2,001 runs in 49 ODIs
• Highest Individual Score: Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 200* at Gwalior (2010)
• Most Centuries: Virat Kohli (India) – 8 centuries
• Best Average (Min 500 runs): Virat Kohli (India) – 63.55 average
• Most Sixes: Rohit Sharma (India) – 45+ sixes

Bowling Records:

• Most Wickets Overall: Shaun Pollock (SA) – 48 wickets in 38 ODIs
• Best Bowling Figures: Ajit Agarkar (India) – 6/42 at Port Elizabeth (2001-02)
• Best Economy Rate (Min 20 wickets): Jasprit Bumrah (India) – 4.52 economy
• Most Five-Wicket Hauls: Multiple bowlers with 2 five-fors each

Run Chase Records:

• Highest Successful Chase (India): 304/4 at Mumbai (2015) – won by 6 wickets
• Highest Successful Chase (SA): 438/4 at Mumbai (2015) – tied on runs

Virat Kohli’s 1,806 ODI runs against SA showcase his consistency. His ability to chase targets makes him invaluable. Rohit Sharma’s double centuries (2 against SA) prove his big-match temperament.

T20I Cricket Records

T20I records in this rivalry highlight explosive batting and clever bowling. The format’s unpredictability makes these achievements even more impressive.

Batting Records:

• Most Runs Overall: David Miller (SA) – 524 runs in 22 T20Is
• Highest Individual Score: Tilak Varma (India) – 120* at Centurion (2024)
• Most Centuries: Tilak Varma (India) – 2 centuries (both against SA!)
• Best Strike Rate (Min 200 runs): Suryakumar Yadav (India) – 170+ strike rate
• Most Sixes: David Miller (SA) – 30+ sixes

Bowling Records:

• Most Wickets Overall: Arshdeep Singh (India) – 20+ wickets in 15 T20Is
• Best Bowling Figures: RP Singh (India) – 4/13 at Durban (2007)
• Best Economy Rate (Min 10 wickets): Jasprit Bumrah (India) – 6.12 economy
• Most Four-Wicket Hauls: Arshdeep Singh (India) – 2 four-fors

David Miller’s finishing ability for SA is legendary. He’s won matches from impossible positions. Arshdeep Singh has become India’s T20I wicket-taker extraordinaire against the Proteas. His left-arm pace and yorkers trouble SA batsmen consistently.

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Top Performers in India vs South Africa Matches

Certain players elevate their game when playing this rivalry. They thrive under pressure and deliver when it matters most. These performers have written their names in cricket history through consistent excellence.

Top Run Scorers (All Formats)

Batting legends from both teams have accumulated massive runs across all formats. Their centuries and match-winning knocks live forever in highlight reels.

Player	Country	Matches	Runs	Average	100s/50s
Sachin Tendulkar	India	71	3,742	49.23	15/20
Virat Kohli	India	62+	2,806	55.02	14/12
Hashim Amla	South Africa	58	2,728	50.52	10/14
Jacques Kallis	South Africa	69	2,426	39.44	6/15
AB de Villiers	South Africa	58	2,315	43.68	5/14

Sachin Tendulkar stands atop the run-scoring mountain. His 3,742 runs across formats showcase unmatched consistency. He scored runs in all conditions, spinning tracks, bouncy pitches, and flat decks. His 200 in the ODI* at Gwalior remains cricket’s most celebrated individual achievement.

Virat Kohli chases Sachin’s legacy brilliantly. His average of 55+ across formats is staggering. Kohli’s ability to construct innings and finish games separates him from peers. His 76 in the 2024 T20 World Cup Final showed why he’s clutch.

Hashim Amla’s technique was poetry. His 2,728 runs came through classical stroke-play. Jacques Kallis was the ultimate all-rounder 2,426 runs plus 65 wickets make him irreplaceable. AB de Villiers entertained with his 360-degree shots and innovative batting.

Top Wicket Takers (All Formats)

Bowling greats have dismantled batting lineups in this rivalry. Their wickets changed series outcomes and defined careers.

Player	Country	Matches	Wickets	Average	Best Figures
Anil Kumble	India	35	92	28.91	6/12
Dale Steyn	South Africa	31	85	24.18	7/51
Harbhajan Singh	India	42	70	32.84	5/13
Morne Morkel	South Africa	44	68	26.75	5/21
Shaun Pollock	South Africa	45	67	29.94	5/36

Anil Kumble terrorized SA batsmen with his leg-spin and accuracy. His 92 wickets in 35 matches show remarkable consistency. Kumble’s ability to extract turn from any surface made him lethal. His 6/12 spell remains one of India’s finest bowling performances.

Dale Steyn was pure pace and aggression. His 85 wickets at 24.18 average demonstrate supreme skill. Steyn’s reverse swing troubled Indian batsmen in both home and away conditions. His 7/51 at Ahmedabad destroyed India’s batting order.

Harbhajan Singh spun webs around SA batsmen. His 70 wickets include numerous match-winning spells. Morne Morkel’s bounce and pace caused problems for Indian batsmen. His height extracted extra bounce that few could handle.

Jasprit Bumrah deserves special mention despite fewer matches. His death bowling against SA in T20 cricket is unmatched. His yorkers have won India multiple close games.

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India National Cricket Team vs South Africa National Cricket Team Players List (2025)

The current squads represent the next generation of this rivalry. Young guns mix with experienced campaigners. Both teams boast depth across all departments making every match competitive.

India Squad

India’s 2025 squad balances youth and experience perfectly. Shubman Gill leads in Tests and ODIs while Suryakumar Yadav captains the T20I team. The batting depth is frightening with multiple match-winners.

Role	Players
Captains	Shubman Gill (Test/ODI), Suryakumar Yadav (T20I)
Batters	Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Tilak Varma, Abhishek Sharma, Shivam Dube
All-Rounders	Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar
Wicketkeepers	Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Sanju Samson, Jitesh Sharma
Fast Bowlers	Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Mukesh Kumar
Spinners	Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Varun Chakravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi

Jasprit Bumrah remains India’s bowling spearhead. His yorkers and slower balls bamboozle batsmen. Tilak Varma emerged as a T20I star with back-to-back centuries against SA. His fearless approach wins matches.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli bring invaluable experience. They’ve seen it all and know how to handle pressure. Hardik Pandya’s all-round abilities balance the team perfectly. His power-hitting and medium pace provide crucial options.

South Africa Squad

South Africa’s squad mixes power-hitters with quality bowlers. Temba Bavuma captains Tests and ODIs while Aiden Markram leads the T20I side. Their pace attack remains world-class.

Role	Players
Captains	Temba Bavuma (Test/ODI), Aiden Markram (T20I)
Batters	Quinton de Kock, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Tristan Stubbs, Reeza Hendricks, David Miller
All-Rounders	Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Andile Phehlukwayo, Donovan Ferreira, Wiaan Mulder
Wicketkeepers	Quinton de Kock, Heinrich Klaasen, Kyle Verreynne
Fast Bowlers	Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, Gerald Coetzee, Lutho Sipamla
Spinners	Keshav Maharaj, Tabraiz Shamsi

Kagiso Rabada leads SA’s bowling attack. His pace and accuracy make him dangerous in all conditions. Quinton de Kock provides explosive starts at the top. His attacking intent puts bowlers on the back foot immediately.

David Miller is SA’s finisher extraordinaire. He’s won matches from impossible positions countless times. Aiden Markram has matured into a reliable middle-order anchor. His captaincy in T20Is has been impressive.

Keshav Maharaj’s left-arm spin is crucial in Test matches. He’s taken vital wickets in India and at home.

Players to Watch in Upcoming IND vs SA Matches (2025)

Certain players will define the remaining matches of this series. Their form and fitness could swing results either way. These match-winners carry their team’s hopes on their shoulders.

Key Indian Players

Tilak Varma has emerged as India’s T20I sensation. His back-to-back centuries against SA in November 2024 announced his arrival. He plays spin and pace with equal confidence. His fearless approach makes him dangerous.

Jasprit Bumrah remains India’s trump card. His death bowling in tight matches is unmatched globally. Bumrah’s yorkers at crucial moments have won India multiple games. SA batsmen struggle against his variations and accuracy.

Shubman Gill leads by example. His elegant stroke-play combines classical technique with modern aggression. Gill’s hundreds in ODI cricket show his maturity. He’s built for big scores.

Arshdeep Singh has become SA’s nemesis in T20Is. His 20+ wickets include crucial breakthroughs. His left-arm angle and death-over yorkers trouble SA’s right-handers consistently.

Key South African Players

Quinton de Kock terrorizes bowlers during powerplays. His strike rate in the first 10 overs is phenomenal. De Kock’s attacking mindset forces India to defend from ball one.

David Miller finishes matches like few others. His ability to hit sixes in death overs is legendary. Miller’s 524 T20I runs against India prove his love for this contest.

Kagiso Rabada spearheads SA’s pace attack brilliantly. His 9-wicket haul in the 2025 Kolkata Test destroyed India. Rabada’s reverse swing and pace variations challenge the best batsmen.

Tristan Stubbs represents SA’s future. His 85 in the 2nd T20I at New Chandigarh showed tremendous potential. Stubbs plays spin confidently and accelerates against pace.

Keshav Maharaj will be vital in the remaining matches. His left-arm spin exploits Indian pitch conditions. Maharaj’s control and variations make him difficult to score against.

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Memorable India vs South Africa Matches (All-Time Classics)

Some matches transcend results and become legends. These contests featured extraordinary drama, individual brilliance, and unforgettable moments. Fans still discuss these games decades later.

2024 T20 World Cup Final – Barbados (India Won by 7 Runs)

June 29, 2024. The biggest match of them all. India posted 176/7 with Virat Kohli scoring 76 and Axar Patel adding 47. SA’s chase looked comfortable at 150/4 after 16 overs. They needed just 27 off 24 balls with 6 wickets remaining.

Then magic happened. Jasprit Bumrah bowled a miserly 17th over. Hardik Pandya dismissed Heinrich Klaasen (52 off 27) in the 18th. Suddenly SA needed 16 off the final over. Hardik held his nerve. David Miller fell to the last ball. India won their second T20 World Cup. SA’s trophy drought continued despite Quinton de Kock’s fighting 39.

The match epitomized this rivalry, tight, dramatic, and unpredictable until the last delivery.

2010 Gwalior ODI – Sachin’s 200 (India Won by 153 Runs)

February 24, 2010. Cricket history changed forever at Captain Roop Singh Stadium. Sachin Tendulkar walked in at 23/1 and proceeded to rewrite record books. He reached 200* off 147 balls the first man to score a double century in ODI cricket.

Sachin’s innings featured 25 fours and 3 sixes. He demolished Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel, and all SA bowlers. India posted 401/3 as Virender Sehwag (32) and MS Dhoni (68*) supported brilliantly. SA crumbled to 248 all out in reply.

This wasn’t just a match. It was witnessing immortality being achieved in real-time.

2006 Johannesburg Test – India’s First Win in SA (India Won by 123 Runs)

December 2006. New Wanderers Stadium. India had never won a Test match in South Africa in 13 years of trying. This barrier needed breaking desperately.

India scored 249 in the first innings. Sreesanth then grabbed 5/40 to bowl SA out for 84. That spell was electric pace, swing, and aggression combined perfectly. India declared their second innings at 249/4. SA needed 415 to win but managed just 244. VVS Laxman (73 and 56) and Sachin Tendulkar (44 and 36) made crucial contributions.

The victory proved India could compete in the toughest overseas conditions. Mental barriers were shattered.

2015 Wankhede ODI – The 438 Tie (Tied on Runs, India Won on Wickets)

October 25, 2015. Mumbai witnessed batting insanity. India batted first and posted 438/4. Rohit Sharma (150 off 133) and Virat Kohli (138 off 119) demolished SA bowling. Shikhar Dhawan added 55. The total looked insurmountable.

SA needed 439. They lost early wickets but Quinton de Kock (109 off 87) and AB de Villiers (119 off 61) had other plans. AB’s assault was breathtaking 31 runs came off one Harbhajan over. SA reached exactly 438/4 off 48.3 overs before losing their 5th wicket.

The match tied on runs but India won having lost fewer wickets. Both teams scored 438/4. Cricket had never seen anything like it.

2001 ICC Knockout Final – Ganguly’s Masterpiece (India Won by 51 Runs)

October 5, 2001. Johannesburg. India faced South Africa in the ICC Knockout Trophy final. This was India’s chance to win a major ODI tournament. The pressure was immense.

Sourav Ganguly rose to the occasion with a magnificent 141* off 142 balls. His innings featured classical drives and powerful pulls. He dominated the Shaun Pollock-led attack completely. India posted 280/6.

In reply, SA never got going. Zaheer Khan grabbed 4/42 while Harbhajan Singh chipped in with 2/43. SA managed just 229 in 47.2 overs. India won their first major ODI trophy outside the Asia region. Ganguly’s knock remains one of India’s greatest ODI innings against SA.

South Africa Tour of India 2025 – Schedule & Results

The 2025 tour provided drama across all formats. South Africa shocked India in Test cricket. India bounced back in the ODI series. The T20I matches remain deliciously poised with three games left.

Date	Match	Format	Venue	Result
Nov 14-18, 2025	1st Test	Test	Kolkata	SA won by 30 runs
Nov 22-26, 2025	2nd Test	Test	Guwahati	SA won by 408 runs
Nov 30, 2025	1st ODI	ODI	Ranchi	India won by 17 runs
Dec 3, 2025	2nd ODI	ODI	Raipur	SA won by 4 wickets
Dec 6, 2025	3rd ODI	ODI	Visakhapatnam	India won by 9 wickets
Dec 9, 2025	1st T20I	T20I	Cuttack	India won by 101 runs
Dec 11, 2025	2nd T20I	T20I	New Chandigarh	SA won by 51 runs
Dec 14, 2025	3rd T20I	T20I	Dharamsala	India won by 7 wickets
Dec 17, 2025	4th T20I	T20I	Lucknow	7:00 PM IST
Dec 19, 2025	5th T20I	T20I	Ahmedabad	7:00 PM IST

Test Series Highlights:

South Africa’s Test series victory (2-0) stunned everyone. The 1st Test at Kolkata saw SA win by 30 runs. Kagiso Rabada took 9 wickets in the match. The 2nd Test at Guwahati was complete domination SA won by 408 runs. Aiden Markram scored 161 while Lungi Ngidi grabbed 6 wickets in the match.

India’s home fortress fell. Their first Test series defeat at home in years hurt deeply. SA’s bowling attack exploited conditions brilliantly while their batsmen showed immense discipline.

ODI Series Highlights:

India responded with character in the ODI series. The 1st ODI at Ranchi saw India defend 305 successfully. Shreyas Iyer top-scored with 78 while Kuldeep Yadav took 3/48.

SA roared back in the 2nd ODI at Raipur. Chasing 358, they won with 4 wickets remaining. Rassie van der Dussen’s unbeaten 109 guided SA home in a tense chase. This match showcased SA’s ODI batting depth.

The decider at Visakhapatnam belonged to India. Shubman Gill smashed 130* as India chased 264 with 9 wickets to spare. India won the series 2-1, proving their resilience.

T20I Series Update:

The T20I series started explosively. India demolished SA by 101 runs in Cuttack. Tilak Varma scored 120 while Arshdeep Singh took 2/14. It looked like India would run away with the series.

SA had different plans. They won the 2nd T20I at New Chandigarh by 51 runs. Tristan Stubbs hit 85 off 50 balls. SA’s bowlers then restricted India to just 148. Series level at 1-1.

India bounced back in the 3rd T20I, chasing confidently to win by 7 wickets and regain momentum in the series.

Two matches remain. The series could go either way. Both teams have shown they can dominate.

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India vs South Africa Upcoming Matches & Series Schedule

Three T20I matches remain in the current series. Each game carries huge importance for rankings and pride. The matches will be played at iconic Indian venues.

Remaining T20I Fixtures:

• 4th T20I: December 17, 2025, at Lucknow (7:00 PM IST)
• 5th T20I: December 19, 2025, at Ahmedabad (7:00 PM IST)

Dharamsala’s high-altitude venue assists fast bowlers. The ball travels faster and swings more. Lucknow offers a balanced pitch favoring both batsmen and bowlers. Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest, provides a grand stage for the series finale.

India needs to win at least two matches to claim the series. SA requires the same. Expect fireworks as both teams go all-out.

Future Bilateral Series:

The next India vs South Africa bilateral series hasn’t been officially announced yet. However, the Future Tours Programme suggests another meeting in 2026-27. SA might host India for a full tour including all three formats.

ICC Tournament Meetings:

Both teams will likely meet in future ICC tournaments:

• 2025 Champions Trophy (if both qualify)
• 2026 T20 World Cup (co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka)
• 2027 ODI World Cup (South Africa hosts)

These tournament clashes bring added pressure and drama. Knockout matches between these sides always deliver thrillers.

Where to Watch India vs South Africa Matches (India, UAE & South Africa)

Fans across multiple regions can catch the action through various broadcasters and streaming platforms. Here’s your complete viewing guide for the remaining matches.

For Viewers in India:

Television Broadcast:

• Star Sports 1 (English commentary)
• Star Sports 1 HD (English commentary – High Definition)
• Star Sports 1 Hindi (Hindi commentary)
• Star Sports 1 Tamil (Tamil commentary)
• Star Sports 1 Telugu (Telugu commentary)
• Star Sports 1 Kannada (Kannada commentary)

Live Streaming:

• JioHotstar (subscription required)
• Available on web browser, Android, and iOS apps
• HD streaming with multiple language options
• Live score updates and match highlights

For Viewers in UAE:

Television Broadcast:

• Star Sports Select 1
• Star Sports Select 1 HD

Live Streaming:

• JioHotstar (available in UAE with subscription)
• OSN Play (if you have OSN subscription)

Match timings in UAE are 1 hour and 30 minutes behind IST. A 7:00 PM IST start means 5:30 PM UAE time.

For Viewers in South Africa:

Television Broadcast:

• SuperSport Cricket (Main channel)
• SuperSport Grandstand (Backup channel)

Live Streaming:

• DStv Now (for DStv subscribers)
• Available on mobile apps and web browsers

Radio Coverage:

• Talk Sport Radio provides live ball-by-ball commentary

All broadcasts feature expert analysis from former cricketers. Pre-match and post-match shows provide tactical insights.

FAQ’s

When did India and South Africa first play against each other in cricket?

India and South Africa first met in international cricket on November 10, 1991. The match was an ODI during the World Cup held in Australia. South Africa had just returned to cricket after the apartheid boycott ended. India won that historic first meeting by 3 wickets at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Their first Test series began in 1992-93 when South Africa toured India. That inaugural Test was played at Durban from November 13-17, 1992.

Which team has won more Test matches between India and South Africa?

South Africa leads the Test head-to-head record with 20 victories compared to India’s 16 wins. Out of 47 Test matches played between them, 11 have ended in draws. SA holds a slight edge overall but India has dominated at home in recent years. India won Test series 3-0 at home in both 2015 and 2019. However, SA’s 2025 victory in India (2-0) reminded everyone they remain dangerous opponents.

What was the result of the first Test series between India and South Africa?

The first Test series between India and South Africa was played in 1992-93. South Africa won the series 1-0 with three draws. SA won the second Test at Johannesburg by 9 wickets. The first Test at Durban ended in a draw despite Pravin Amre’s century on debut for India. The third Test at Port Elizabeth was also drawn. The final Test at Cape Town couldn’t produce a result either. This series marked SA’s competitive return to international Test cricket after isolation.

How many T20I matches have India and South Africa played against each other?

India and South Africa have played 32 T20I matches against each other as of December 2025. India leads the rivalry with 19 victories to SA’s 13 wins. No match has ended without a result. The most memorable T20I between them was the 2024 T20 World Cup Final where India won by 7 runs. India’s dominance in this format contrasts with SA’s superior Test record. The shortest format suits India’s aggressive approach better.

Who are some notable players in the India vs. South Africa cricket rivalry?

Several legends have defined this rivalry through extraordinary performances. Sachin Tendulkar leads all run-scorers with 3,742 runs across formats. Virat Kohli has scored 2,800+ runs with exceptional consistency. Anil Kumble (92 wickets) and Dale Steyn (85 wickets) dominated with the ball. Jacques Kallis was the ultimate all-rounder with 2,426 runs and 65 wickets. AB de Villiers entertained with innovative batting. Current stars like Jasprit Bumrah, Kagiso Rabada, and David Miller continue this legacy brilliantly.

Conclusion

The India national cricket team vs South Africa national cricket team timeline represents one of cricket’s most thrilling rivalries. From that first meeting in 1991 to the ongoing 2025 series, both teams have traded blows across three decades. The competitiveness remains intense. Neither team dominates completely anymore.

South Africa’s Test victory in 2025 shocked India but also proved their quality. India’s ODI series win showed tremendous character and batting depth. The T20I series hangs deliciously balanced at 1-1 with three matches remaining. This rivalry keeps delivering unforgettable moments from Sachin’s double hundred to SA’s 438 chase to India’s 2024 World Cup triumph.

Looking ahead, both teams possess talented squads capable of winning anywhere. Jasprit Bumrah and Kagiso Rabada lead world-class bowling attacks. Shubman Gill and Quinton de Kock represent the future of batting. Veterans like Rohit Sharma and David Miller still have crucial roles to play.

The beauty of this rivalry? It never gets old. Every series feels fresh. Every match could swing either way. Fans in India, UAE, South Africa, and worldwide will continue watching because this contest delivers quality cricket consistently. The India vs South Africa cricket timeline will keep producing classics for years to come.