IND vs SA 2nd ODI: India Aim for Series Lead in Raipur

India and South Africa return to action at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur today for the second ODI of their three-match series. India lead 1-0 after securing a tight victory in Ranchi, while South Africa seeks redemption following a shaky start with an early batting collapse. Both teams are expected to make tactical adjustments as captains KL Rahul and Temba Bavuma strategize for momentum in this crucial midweek encounter.

India’s Strong XI Expected to Remain Unchanged

India are unlikely to make major changes following their Ranchi success. The predicted XI includes Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Washington Sundar, KL Rahul (captain/wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, and Prasidh Krishna. The team is expected to continue with a three-pacers-one-wrist-spinner combination. Virat Kohli is in exceptional form after notching his 52nd century across formats, while the settled middle order provides stability and confidence.

South Africa Reinforces Squad with Key Returns

South Africa will field a stronger XI with Temba Bavuma and Keshav Maharaj returning after being rested in the first ODI. The predicted lineup features Quinton de Kock (wicketkeeper), Ryan Rickelton, Bavuma (captain), Aiden Markram, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Corbin Bosch, Marco Jansen, Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, and Nandre Burger/Prenelan Subrayen. Bavuma’s presence will stabilize the top order following their previous 11/3 collapse, while Maharaj strengthens the spin attack.

India start as favorites due to their 1-0 lead and stronger middle order, though South Africa’s refreshed squad makes this contest competitive and unpredictable.