On Sunday (December 17), South Africa are set to face India in the opening ODI of a three-match series. The match will take place at the New Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. The T20I series between the two teams concluded with a 1-1 scoreline. India emerged victorious in the final match, securing a substantial 106-run margin.

In the absence of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul will assume the captaincy for the Indian side. Rahul previously debuted as captain during the last South Africa tour, where India faced defeat in all three ODIs. He also led the team in two matches of the three-game series against Australia in September this year. Notable additions to the squad for the upcoming ODIs include Rajat Patidar, Sai Sudharsan, Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, and Yuzvendra Chahal, who were not part of the T20I squad. Unfortunately, Deepak Chahar has been ruled out of the series, and his replacement is Akash Deep.

In the absence of Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram will assume the captaincy for the Proteas side. The ODI squad includes new additions Tony de Zorzi, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne, Mihlali Mpongwana, and Wiaan Mulder, who were not part of the T20I squad.

Deepak Chahar has been ruled out of the series and has been replaced by Akash Deep.

The pitch at the New Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg is expected to provide favorable conditions for bowlers. Over the last five matches, the average first innings total has been 210 runs. Winning the toss might prompt the teams to opt for bowling first. Notably, in the last 10 50-over matches at this venue, teams batting first have surpassed the 300-run mark only three times.