India's first T20I against South Africa was washed out due to persistent rain in Dharamsala on Sunday.

The official cut off time was 9.46 PM IST but the heavy rain forced the officials to call off the match early. India's build-up to the series was exceptional as they clean swept the T20 World Cup holders, the West Indies in their last outing in the shortest format.

For South Africa, who are in the midst of a toughtransitional phase, players like Temba Bavuma and Anrich Nortje will be lookingto grab their opportunities in the absence of seasoned campaigners like Faf duPlessis and Hashim Amla.