After facing a tough loss against the West Indies in the 2nd ODI, the Indian Team Management came under scrutiny for their decision to rest key players, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, which backfired. The question of who will fill the crucial middle-order positions still lingers.
In the midst of these uncertainties, both teams are set to clash in the series decider at Trinidad, promising an absolute thriller. Team India seeks answers as they will welcome back captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli, while the West Indies would be aiming to maintain their momentum and secure a series win over India for the first time since 2006.
THE VENUE FOR 3RD ODI:
The Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad will be the setting for this crucial encounter. Though it is the first Men’s ODI to be played at this venue, it has hosted three Women’s ODI matches before.
The surface at the stadium is slow, much like the first two ODIs, which could pose a challenge for the batsmen. Winning the toss and opting to bat second may be the ideal decision, considering the difficulty of batting. Spinners are expected to play a significant role in this game.
TEAM PREVIEW
WEST INDIES
The West Indies team, fresh from their stunning victory against India in the 2nd ODI, is expected to field an unchanged XI in the 3rd ODI. Their aim is to continue their impressive performance and shock India by winning the series. Players like Left Arm Spinner Gudakesh Motie, Batsman Keacy Carty, and experienced campaigner Shai Hope showcased their skills in the previous match against India.
Expected XI for the 3rd ODI for the West Indies:
Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Alick Athanaze, Shai Hope (c & wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Keacy Carty, Romario Shepherd, Yannic Cariah, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Jayden Seales
INDIA
After facing criticism for his experimental strategies just two months before the World Cup, Coach Rahul Dravid and the Team Management won’t take any risks in the crucial 3rd ODI. As expected, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will make their way back into the playing XI. In the middle order, there is a debate between Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav, but Surya might just edge out Samson to secure a spot in the final lineup. In the bowling department, Jaydev Unadkat might replace Umran Malik in the playing XI.
Expected XI for the 3rd ODI for India
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Ishan Kishan (wk), Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Mukesh Kumar
WHAT TO EXPECT
The series decider promises to be a thrilling encounter. With India boasting the advantage of experience, they are expected to clinch the series. However, the West Indies team is not to be taken lightly, as they will undoubtedly fight tooth and nail for a victory.
MATCH PREDICTION
In this highly anticipated clash, India is predicted to beat the West Indies and clinch the series 2-1, leveraging their experience and strong lineup. However, the unpredictable nature of cricket means anything can happen, and the West Indies’ fighting spirit could prove to be a game-changer.
Also Read: IND v WI: India Gears Up For World Cup Prep With ODI Series Against Resilient West Indies