It did not feel like a Super 8 clash on Saturday, a day before India were to take on South Africa in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. A grand total of four Indian players turned up for practice, and the story was more or less similar for the South African side as well. It was quite a contrast that South Africa did not opt for a full practice under the lights of the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, while smaller nations like Namibia were upset with the fact that they were not give sessions to adjust to the floodlights in the stadiums.
On Saturday, there was a sense of calm before the storm in the Motera area of Ahmedabad, where the stadium is situated. The area was not bustling. Only a few people gathered around the main gate of the stadium, seeking tickets from the guards. Inside the stadium complex, carpenters and painters provided final touches to set up the lounges for players and VIPs, while out on the ground, the South Africa and India pla
Continue Reading on India Today
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.