As India gears up for the ICC World Cup, cricket enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the third ODI between India and Australia. This match serves as a unique opportunity for some vital batting practice against the formidable trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood.
While the anticipation surrounding this encounter is palpable, it’s worth noting that India will field just 13 players in their squad for this match. Key players such as Shubman Gill, Shardul Thakur, Mohammad Shami, and Hardik Pandya have been granted well-deserved rests, allowing them to recharge before the World Cup.
However, the return of two cricketing giants, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, to the Indian playing XI is sure to infuse excitement into the contest. Their formidable partnership at the top of the order promises to be a sight to behold. Moreover, Shreyas Iyer’s recent century in Indore signals a positive development for the team.
One area of concern for India is wicketkeeping. KL Rahul’s discomfort during the Mohali match led to him handing over the keeping duties to Ishan Kishan in Indore. Considering that KL Rahul is being considered as the primary wicketkeeping option for the World Cup, he is likely to return to the wicketkeeping role in Rajkot.
In terms of the expected playing XI for India, Ishan Kishan is set to open alongside Rohit Sharma, while Virat Kohli will return to the pivotal No. 3 position. Shreyas Iyer, who has displayed good form after a significant injury layoff, will occupy the No. 4 slot, followed by KL Rahul at No. 5. In the absence of Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav is expected to hold the No. 6 position.
The bowling combinations present an intriguing aspect of the game. With the absence of Mohammad Shami, India’s pace attack will rely on just two pacers, with Mohammed Siraj stepping in for Shami. The spin department will see Ravindra Jadeja partnering with Ravichandran Ashwin.
There’s also speculation about Washington Sundar’s inclusion in the playing XI. Sundar may replace Jadeja, adding depth to India’s batting lineup.
When it comes to the spin attack, Ashwin has regained his form and confidence, as demonstrated by his three-wicket haul in the second ODI. This impressive performance may cement his place in the playing XI.
The predicted India Playing XI for the 3rd ODI against Australia shapes up as follows:
– Rohit Sharma
– Ishan Kishan
– Virat Kohli
– Shreyas Iyer
– KL Rahul (WK)
– Suryakumar Yadav
– Ravindra Jadeja/Washington Sundar
– Ravichandran Ashwin
– Kuldeep Yadav/Mukesh Kumar
– Jasprit Bumrah
– Mohammed Siraj
With this lineup, India aims to fine-tune their strategies and combinations ahead of the World Cup, making the 3rd ODI against Australia a pivotal encounter to watch.
