The Indian national anthem was reportedly interrupted twice due to technical issues before the start of IND vs SA 1st T20I at Kingsmead, Durban. As players from both teams assembled on the field, the anthem was halted mid-way, which caused frustration among Indian fans, as the national anthem is considered sacred.
Despite the disruption, Indian players, including Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav, continued to sing 'Jana Gana Mana.' The incident led to widespread criticism, with upset fans taking to social media to express their anger.
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South Africa wins toss, asks India to bat first in IND vs SA 1st T20I
South Africa captain, Aiden Markram, won the toss and chose to bowl first against India. Under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, Team India decided to field their experienced players, without giving a debut to any newcomers from the bench.
South Africa's record at Durban's Kingsmead ground is underwhelming. In the 11 matches played there, Proteas have won 5 and lost 6. What's more concerning is their recent performance, having lost their last four games at the venue.
IND vs SA T20I series marks Suryakumar Yadav's first overseas tour as captain. Durban has been a favorable venue for India, with the team winning four out of the five matches played here. The Indian side has enjoyed significant success on this ground in T20Is. It was at this venue where in 2007 Yuvraj Singh made history by hitting six sixes in an over.
India vs South Africa playing XIs
India: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson(w), Suryakumar Yadav(c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan
South Africa: Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram(c), Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen(w), David Miller, Patrick Kruger, Marco Jansen, Andile Simelane, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, Nqabayomzi Peter