India Holds The Upper Hand In T20Is, Feels Dale Steyn

Former South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn has stated that India has emerged as the better team in the T20I segment of the closely fought India–South Africa series.

With the contest delicately balanced, the teams will decide the final result in the fifth and last T20I, where India can secure a 3–1 win or South Africa can level the series at 2–2.

Unfortunately, the fourth T20I scheduled in Lucknow on Wednesday was abandoned without a single delivery being bowled due to dense fog.

Consequently, attention now turns entirely to the series decider, which will be played on Friday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Speaking about South Africa’s overall tour of India, Steyn described it as impressive and competitive across formats. In his view, the visitors have surpassed expectations, particularly with their performances in the longer formats of the game.

South Africa’s Test series win stood out, while their showing in the ODI series was also commendable.

According to Steyn, missed opportunities prevented them from achieving even greater success.

Nevertheless, Steyn was clear in his assessment of the T20Is, stressing that India has consistently stayed ahead in key moments.

From Steyn’s perspective, India’s ability to deliver decisive performances, especially with the ball, has been the defining factor in the shortest format.

Although South Africa has produced moments of quality, they have struggled to sustain pressure across entire matches.

“They bowled South Africa out cheaply in one game, conceded runs in another, but then dominated again in Dharamshala. If India wins the series, I would say well played — they would deserve it. But I’m hoping South Africa turns it around. They’ve had a wonderful tour,” Steyn said on JioStar.

Steyn Calls It a ‘Wonderful Tour’ Despite Challenges

Despite the challenges, Steyn described the tour as a ‘wonderful’ one for the Proteas, highlighting their growth and competitiveness in Indian conditions.

Turning his focus to individual performances, Steyn spoke highly of India’s young batting talents, particularly Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma. While praising both players, he highlighted their contrasting styles.

Recalling Gill’s performances during his time as a bowling coach in the IPL, Steyn noted the elegance and ease with which the right-hander scores runs. Comparatively, Abhishek Sharma’s fearless approach and six-hitting ability offer a different brand of entertainment.

Personally, Steyn admitted a fondness for classical strokeplay, adding that Gill’s cover drives and straight hits make him a joy to watch when in full flow.

With the fourth match washed out, the final T20I has taken on added importance.

India will aim to confirm their superiority in the format, while South Africa will look to finish a memorable tour on a high by drawing the series level.

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