Archive · 2 Sep 2026
India Eyes South Africa ODI Series Before 2027 World Cup
India may play several one-day cricket matches in South Africa before the 2027 World Cup.
The proposed series could have four or six games.
Indian cricket officials are discussing the idea with South African officials.
The matches would help Indian players practice in conditions similar to those at the World Cup.
The tournament will be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
It is planned for October and November 2027.
India last played a three-match ODI series in South Africa in 2023 and won it 2-1.
The new series has not been confirmed yet.
India could play a four- or six-match ODI series against South Africa before the 2027 World Cup.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India and Cricket South Africa are reportedly discussing the proposal.
The series would help India prepare for conditions in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
The 2027 World Cup is scheduled for October and November across 12 venues in three countries.
India last played an ODI series in South Africa in December 2023, winning 2-1 under KL Rahul.
- Who
- The India national cricket team could play South Africa, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India and Cricket South Africa reportedly discussing the proposal.
- What
- A proposed four- or six-match ODI series is being considered as preparation for the 2027 ICC Men's ODI World Cup.
- When
- The series is expected in the second half of 2027, while the World Cup is scheduled for October and November 2027.
- Where
- The proposed series would be played in South Africa; the World Cup will be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
- Why
- The series would give India match practice and exposure to conditions expected during the World Cup.
- Proposed series
- Four or six ODIs between India and South Africa
- Status
- Reportedly under discussion between the BCCI and CSA
- World Cup timing
- Scheduled for October and November 2027
- World Cup hosts
- South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia
- Planned venues
- Eight in South Africa, three in Zimbabwe and one in Namibia
- Previous India-South Africa ODI series
- India won 2-1 in December 2023
- Previous captain mentioned
- KL Rahul led India in the 2023 series