India are all set to take on South Africa in a blockbuster Super 8 fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, February 22. With the tournament entering a decisive phase, this clash between two title contenders promises fireworks.
While much of the spotlight has been on India’s in-form opener Abhishek Sharma, former India cricketer believes the bigger focus should be on South Africa’s captain Aiden Markram. According to the ex-opening batter, neutralising Markram early could significantly tilt the balance in India’s favour.
Markram has been a key pillar in South Africa’s batting unit, providing stability at the top while also accelerating when required. His ability to anchor the innings and shift gears makes him a dangerous proposition, especially in pressure games like this one.
Former opener reveals game plan to dismiss Aiden Markram
Former opening batter and now a popular broadcaster Aakash Chopra has suggested a clear tactical move for India captain Suryakumar Yadav — introduce left-arm spinner Axar Patel early in the innings to target Markram.
Explaining his reasoning on his YouTube channel, Chopra pointed out that Markram’s numbers against Axar are far from impressive. The South African skipper has reportedly scored at nearly a run-a-ball against the left-arm spinner and has been dismissed three times in a relatively small sample of deliveries. Chopra emphasized that Markram’s discomfort against left-arm spin is well-documented.
He further broke down the technical aspect of the contest. Markram enjoys playing on the off side and often attempts inside-out shots against spin. However, Axar’s angle from wide of the crease brings the ball back in after pitching, creating deception. While Markram might feel he is playing with the spin toward the off side, the ball actually continues to angle in with the arm, leading to mistimed strokes.
“Even before Varun Chakravarthy, I feel Axar Patel, because he (Markram) goes at a run-a-ball against him. His strike rate is slightly better against everyone else. Axar has dismissed him three times and has bowled only 34 or 35 balls, in which he has scored only 38 runs. It is well-documented that left-arm spin versus Aiden Markram is an issue. He has an issue against leg-spin as well, but it’s also there against left-arm spin,” said Chopra.
Chopra also noted that Markram has shown vulnerability against leg-spin, which could bring Varun Chakravarthy into play during the powerplay overs. The idea, according to him, is to attack with spin rather than wait for the middle overs. By doing so, India can disrupt South Africa’s rhythm right at the start.
“So Axar Patel should be introduced early. He likes playing on the off side and likes playing inside-out shots. Axar bowls from wide of the crease and brings the ball in, and Markram feels he is playing with the spin on the off side, but it’s not with the spin. The bowl comes in with the arm and keeps going in after pitching. Markram has been guilty. He tries to play on the off side or goes slightly back to full deliveries,” added Chopra.
Tactical battle could define Super 8 momentum
The India-South Africa encounter is not just about big names but also about small tactical edges. In high-pressure tournaments, match-ups often decide outcomes. If India manage to exploit Markram’s weakness early, they could put the Proteas under immediate pressure. With quality bowlers like Axar and Varun at their disposal, India have the tools to execute this strategy effectively. However, execution under match conditions will be crucial. Markram, on the other hand, is experienced enough to counter plans and adapt quickly.
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