South Africa and West Indies return to action for the second T20I of the three-match series on Thursday, January 29, at SuperSport Park in Centurion. With the hosts holding a 1–0 advantage, the visitors face a must-win situation to keep the series alive, while South Africa will aim to seal the contest with another composed display.
The opening game of the series saw South Africa assert early control, particularly with the bat. After opting to field, the Proteas restricted the West Indies to a below-par total despite late resistance from the middle order. The chase that followed was handled with authority, as the South African top order dictated terms and wrapped up the target with overs to spare.
For the West Indies, the challenge remains consistency across phases. Their innings in the first match lacked momentum during the middle overs, placing pressure on the lower order. With the series on the line, a sharper approach with the bat and greater discipline with the ball will be essential in Centurion.
SA vs WI 2nd T20I Match Details
| Match | South Africa vs West Indies, 2nd T20I |
| Series | West Indies tour of South Africa 2026 |
| Date | Thursday, January 29 |
| Time | 9:30 PM IST |
| Venue | SuperSport Park, Centurion |
| Live Streaming | FanCode |
Pitch Report – SuperSport Park, Centurion
The surface at Centurion traditionally offers pace and bounce, particularly early in the innings. Seamers are likely to find assistance with the new ball, while batters who settle in can score freely through the line. As the match progresses, the pitch tends to slow slightly, bringing spinners and cutters into play. A first-innings total in the range of 160 to 170 could prove competitive.
Head-to-Head Record (T20Is)
| Matches Played | 27 |
| South Africa Wins | 13 |
| West Indies Wins | 14 |
Probable Playing XIs
South Africa:
Aiden Markram (captain), Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Ryan Rickelton (wicketkeeper), Dewald Brevis, Rubin Hermann, Jason Smith, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka
West Indies:
Shai Hope (captain, wicketkeeper), Johnson Charles, Brandon King, Sherfane Rutherford, Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd, Roston Chase, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Matthew Forde, Jayden Seales
Key Players to Watch
Aiden Markram remains central to South Africa’s plans after his fluent innings in the series opener. His ability to control the tempo at the top will once again be crucial. For the West Indies, the expected return of Shai Hope could add stability, while Jason Holder’s all-round presence may influence key moments.
Match Prediction
Despite South Africa’s advantage at home, the West Indies possess the experience and depth to respond strongly under pressure. With a stronger batting structure and improved execution, the visitors are well placed to level the series.
- Match Predicted Winner: West Indies
