Australia and South Africa will continue their preparations for the T20 World Cup with a three-match T20 series starting today. But more than the contest, all eyes will be on Steve Smith and David Warner. The infamous sandpaper gate took place in South Africa in 2018 and it will be after two years that the duo will return to the country.

Both will be part of the playing XI but do not expect the crowd to jeer or tease them. Cricket South Africa will also be geared to ensure that the players don’t have to bear the crowd’s reaction.

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Conditions –

There are chances of rain during the match, which should mean captain winning the toss will bowl first. Also expect lots of runs here.

Here is the Likely playing X of both the teams –

South Africa:

Former captain Faf du Plessis is set to play his first white-ball game since World Cup 2019. It remains to be seen if he opens the innings or not. It is confirmed that Temba Bavuma will at least miss the opening T20I of the series.

Dale Steyn isn’t expected to be rested for the opening game. He will be leading the pace attack which will be bolstered with the comeback of Kagiso Rabada, who was rested for series against England.

Likely playing XI: Quinton de Kock, Faf du Plessis, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Dale Steyn

Australia:

Matthew Wade looks likely to make his white-ball return but his batting position will be of much debate. Steve Smith might be demoted to adjust him in the middle-order. Australia should go in with their best attack in the opening T20I.

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Glen Maxwell’s absence does provide Australia with an opportunity to test D’Arcy Short in the shortest format but he isn’t expected to be given the first go. He will have to wait for his opportunity.

Likely playing XI: David Warner, Aaron Finch, Matthew Wade, Steve Smith, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, Adam Zampa, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Mitchel Starc, Kane Richardson

My dream11 team for SA vs AUS 1st T20I

Quinton de Kock (Captain), Heinrich Klaasen, Faf du Plessis, Aaron Finch (Vice-Captain), David Warner, David Miller, Mitchell Marsh, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Kagiso Rabada, Dale Steyn,