Third T20I of the five-match series Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) The previous match will be played at the stadium where the series is tied at 1-1. South Africa’s victory After. This beautiful, high altitude venue is renowned for its fast outfield, extra bounce and dramatic conditions, which offer a different challenge to the Mallanpur pitch.
Historically, the ground has provided an even contest between batsman and bowler, with average scores batting first in the T20 format often ranging between 137–152, although recent IPL matches have seen scores cross 200, indicating the potential for high-scoring matches. The pitch provides good carry for the fast bowlers, helping early seam movement, but the right bounce also promotes intuitive strokeplay once the batsmen are set.
IND vs SA, 3rd T20I: Dharamshala Weather Forecast
The match, scheduled for Sunday, December 14, 2025, is expected to be played in cool conditions, with a maximum temperature of 14°C and a minimum of 9°C in the evening. While the weather at high altitude is changeable, current forecasts are predicting generally clear skies, with little chance of rain (with some sources suggesting a slight drizzle). At this altitude (about 1,300–1,450 m) the cool, fresh December air is ideal for spectators but challenging for players to get to grips with. The main weather-related concern is the impact of dew, not rain disruptions, which are likely to spoil the entire match.
IND vs SA, 3rd T20I: Effect of dew
The significant altitude of the HPCA Stadium, combined with the typical cool December evenings, creates heavy accumulations of dew after sunset. This dew makes the ball wet, slippery and difficult for the bowlers to catch in the second innings. The wet ball slides faster on the outfield, making it easier for the chasing team to hit the ball straight and score boundaries. This effect neutralises the threat of spinners and fast bowlers towards the end of the game, increasing the advantage for the team batting second, which is seen in night games at altitude here.
IND vs SA, 3rd T20I: Toss Prediction
Captain on winning the toss bowling first Here are the main reasons why you might choose to do so:
- Benefits of dew: Evening dew makes bowling extremely difficult in the second innings, significantly increasing the chances of the team batting second to win.
- History of HPCA: Although the T20I wins are a bit balanced, the consistent presence of heavy dew indicates that the team chasing has a considerable edge in night games at this venue.
- Initial advantage of fast bowlers: Bowling first allows the fast bowling attack to take advantage of the extra bounce and potential seam/swing provided by the pitch until the dew settles.
- Batting facility: The elevated pitch provides perfect bounce and a fast outfield, which is ideal for stroke making, especially when the ball is wet and slippery later in the match.
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