India opener Smriti Mandhana is a doubtful starter for the second T20I against South Africa as she sustained an injury during the series opener on Saturday (March 20).

In the 6th over of South Africa’s innings, Mandhana fell down with twisted legs while backing up a Shafali Verma throw after visiting skipper Sune Luus had scampered for a run.

As a result, Mandhana limped off the field with the help of the support staff. While she returned to the field during South Africa’s run chase, it was obvious that she was not feeling comfortable out there in the middle.

"I have to see how it goes overnight, at the moment it looks better though. Let's see what is the status (on Sunday)," said Mandhana at the post-match presentation after India’s 8-wicket defeat in the first game of the three-match T20I series.

Notably, Smriti Mandhana led the Women in Blue in the opening T20I after regular captain Harmanpreet Kaur missed the match due to a hip injury.

The second T20 International will be played in Lucknow on Sunday (March 21).

(With PTI inputs)