JP Duminy backs Sanju Samson as India’s No. 3 for Super Eight showdown against South Africa
- February 22, 2026
Dubai: In the latest episode of the newly launched Mr. Cricket UAE Podcast, South Africa legend JP Duminy, in conversation with host Mr. Anis Sajan (aka Mr. Cricket UAE), shared insightful views on India’s dominance over South Africa in ICC tournaments, tactical strategies for the India vs South Africa clash, key player matchups, and bold predictions for the tournament.
“India Always Bring Their Best in ICC Events”
Speaking about India’s strong record in global tournaments, Duminy said, “There's no doubt about it that when it comes to knockout tournaments like World Cups, Champions Trophies and the likes, you always feel that India brings out their best. India goes into World Cups, in particular this one, as one of the favorites, if not the favorite. Home conditions and playing really, really good cricket.”
Toss Tactics: “Chasing Could Be Effective in Ahmedabad”
On what the South African captain should do if he wins the toss in Ahmedabad, Duminy emphasized the importance of match timing and conditions, “I think chasing seems to be effective there in Ahmedabad. It also depends on timing. It's an evening game. You might have noticed in earlier games that bowlers probably have a favourable start in the first 10 overs. But because it's in the evening, I'd probably go along the lines of chasing.”
Sanju Samson at No. 3? Duminy Sees Tactical Balance
Discussing the possibility of Sanju Samson replacing Tilak Varma, Duminy expressed admiration for Sanju’s aggressive approach, “What I love about Sanju is that it looks like he's playing that aggressive brand of cricket which India have certainly played for a period of time. He offers a right-handed option at the top of the order if need be. I wouldn't be surprised if we see Sanju coming in.”
However, he also acknowledged the balance Tilak brings, “It does put a little bit of pressure on a guy like Tilak Varma coming in early, trying to steady the ship. But it’s a yin-yang situation, you have the strike rates on one side and the anchoring role on the other. Maybe there’s a discussion around defining roles.”
Duminy added that he likes the combination of, “Keeping the two left-handers up top and then Sanju at three, if they’re going to go the Tilak Varma replacement route.”
Players to Watch out for: India vs South Africa
South Africa
● Batsman: Aiden Markram
● Bowler: Marco Jansen
India
● Batsman: Ishan Kishan
● Bowler: Jasprit Bumrah
Sharing His Thoughts on Key Performers from India from South African POV
Speaking about the Indian team’s impact players, JP Duminy highlighted both experience and explosive potential.
On Abhishek Sharma, he said, “I’ll be looking at Abhishek Sharma, who is one of the best in the world in this format, even though he’s going through a bit of a tough time.”
On Ishan Kishan, Duminy praised his current form and fearless intent, “Ishan Kishan is firing on all cylinders. He is in blazing form and playing fearless cricket much like Abhishek used to at one point.”
Tournament Predictions
Duminy predicted the semi-finalists to be: India, South Africa, England and Pakistan.
For the final, he forecasts: India and South Africa as the finalists, saying, “I’ll be happy if India wins tomorrow and we win the finals.”
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