(AFP Photo)
Following a surprising 32-run defeat in the second ODI against Sri Lanka on Sunday (August 4), the Rohit Sharma-led Indian men’s cricket team will be eager to deliver a strong performance in the third and final ODI of their three-match series on Wednesday (August 7).
As the world No. 1 ODI team, India will be determined to overcome Sri Lanka in the series decider at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, aiming to avoid the humiliation of losing an ODI series to an injury-stricken Sri Lankan side.
Following underwhelming performances by the middle-order batters in the first two ODIs, the Indian team management is expected to implement several changes to the playing XI for the crucial must-win match. Riyan Parag, who is making his debut in the ODI squad, could be one of the new faces in the team.
The 22-year-old Parag is known for his dependable middle-order batting and his ability to bowl. Notably, he showcased his all-round skills by taking three wickets for just five runs during the first T20I between India and Sri Lanka in Pallekele on July 27.
Shivam Dube, who bowled a few overs in the second ODI and failed to make an impact as the No. 4 batter, might be replaced by Riyan Parag. Additionally, Rishabh Pant is also likely to feature in the series decider.
Pant, who participated in all eight matches of the T20 World Cup 2024 for India, was sidelined for the first two ODIs with KL Rahul chosen as the wicketkeeper-batter. However, following Rahul’s poor performance in the second ODI, Pant could step in for the crucial final match.
In terms of bowling, India will rely heavily on the pace duo of Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh, along with spinner Kuldeep Yadav, for the third ODI. While Siraj boasts an impressive ODI record against Sri Lanka, he has yet to deliver his best performance in the series. Similarly, Arshdeep Singh has also been somewhat underwhelming.
India’s likely playing XI for the 3rd ODI against Sri Lanka: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (WK), Riyan Parag, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.
