Aiden Markram fires, Anrich Nortje flops: Mixed fortunes for Proteas in India warm-up match

Following South Africa’s 30-run loss to India in their T20 World Cup warm-up fixture on Wednesday, cricket writer Ongama Gcwabe highlights four key observations and one critical recommendation for the team as they head into the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Captain Markram leads from the front

Throughout the season, Aiden Markram has remained in superb form, recently scoring a century in the SA20 and a sublime unbeaten 86 against the West Indies in Paarl. On Wednesday, the skipper continued exactly where he left off, smashing 38 off just 19 balls, including four maximums and two boundaries. Markram eventually retired out to allow his teammates valuable time in the middle before the tournament begins. His performance suggests he is primed to lead the batting unit by example during the showpiece event.

Jason Smith belongs

While many may have questioned Jason Smith’s selection when the squad was first announced, he has quickly silenced doubters in the green and gold. In Navi Mumbai, Smith displayed immense power, blasting 35 off 23 deliveries with four boundaries and a six. His ability to perform under pressure against high-quality opposition confirms he belongs at the highest level and will be a pivotal asset for South Africa in the coming weeks.

Concerning form for Nortje

In stark contrast, Anrich Nortje has endured a woeful return to the Proteas' T20I setup. After conceding 0/59 in just three overs in Centurion last week, his struggles continued at the DY Patil Stadium. The right-arm quick went for 29 runs in his opening over and finished with figures of 1/57 from his three overs. Most concerning for the Proteas' management was Nortje appearing "clueless" under pressure — a significant red flag heading into a World Cup.

Powerplay bowling combinations

The first powerplay remains the most difficult phase of T20 cricket, and it is an area where the Proteas are currently failing. Following expensive starts in the West Indies series, South Africa conceded a staggering 83/1 in the powerplay against India on Wednesday night. Captain Markram has yet to find the right balance with the new ball; as the powerplay sets the tone for the entire innings, South Africa often find themselves chasing the game before the sixth over is even complete.

Recommendations: The path forward

From a bowling perspective, it is "clear as daylight" that Lungi Ngidi remains the team's most reliable operator. The 29-year-old should be utilised for at least two overs in the first powerplay to neutralise the opposition’s early charge.

On the batting front, Tristan Stubbs requires consistent backing. Despite a slower start in Navi Mumbai, his late-innings explosion—finishing with 45 off 21, including three sixes in the final over — proved that the 25-year-old remains one of the most destructive finishers in world cricket.