The Indian cricket team’s preparations for the high-stakes T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 encounter against South Africa were briefly disrupted after pacer Mohammed Siraj sustained a blow to his left knee during a training session in Ahmedabad. The incident occurred at the Narendra Modi Stadium when a powerful shot from all-rounder Hardik Pandya struck Siraj, leaving him in visible discomfort and forcing him to leave the nets.

India are currently stationed in Ahmedabad for what is being billed as a marquee rematch of the T20 World Cup 2024 final against South Africa. With a semi-final berth at stake, the Super 8 clash carries significant importance. The team management will closely monitor Siraj’s condition, especially given the series of illness and injury setbacks the squad has already endured during the tournament.

Earlier in the competition, Jasprit Bumrah and Abhishek Sharma each missed matches due to illness, while Washington Sundar also faced health concerns. Ahead of the tournament, Harshit Rana was ruled out through injury, prompting Siraj’s inclusion as a replacement. Siraj featured in India’s group-stage match against the USA and impressed with a three-wicket haul, though he has since been rotated with Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh preferred in the pace attack.

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Meanwhile, India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel expressed confidence in mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy ahead of the South Africa fixture. Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Morkel described Varun as a key strike bowler who has consistently delivered both in the lead-up to and during the World Cup.

However, Morkel emphasised that Varun’s effectiveness depends on collective pressure from the entire bowling unit. He highlighted the importance of support from senior pacers such as Bumrah to maintain control and create wicket-taking opportunities. As India head into a decisive encounter, fitness updates and bowling combinations will be closely scrutinised in the lead-up to the clash.

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