New Delhi: With a commanding 2‑0 advantage in the three‑match series, India steps into the third ODI determined to complete a clean sweep over the West Indies. Anchored by Shubman Gill’s prolific form, the side now wants to back its batting fireworks with a more incisive bowling display.
Batting Fireworks vs Bowling Inconsistencies
India’s top order has stolen the spotlight, posting mammoth totals in both fixtures. In contrast, the pace unit has struggled to break through consistently, especially during the opening spell and the middle overs.
The second encounter produced in excess of 800 runs, underscoring the batter‑friendly decks seen so far. The upcoming contest at Mullanpur offers a chance for a more seam‑friendly surface that could aid the bowlers.
Powerplay Woes
Across the first two games India managed just a single wicket in each powerplay, leaking a combined 177 runs in those ten‑over bursts. The scarcity of early breakthroughs has left the middle overs under added strain.
Spinner Kuldeep Yadav has emerged as a reliable wicket‑taker, yet he often finds himself without sufficient backing from the other end‑men.
All‑Rounders in the Spotlight
All‑rounder Ravindra Jadeja, despite his wealth of experience, has claimed only three wickets in his last eight outings. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill continues to dominate the batting charts, already boasting a century and an unbeaten 223 in the series.
Veteran Contributions
Senior stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have added valuable runs, but several squad members – including KL Rahul, Naman Dhir and Jadeja – are still searching for a substantial impact with the bat.
Bowling Reshuffle
Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna will miss the third ODI with a hamstring strain. Anshul Kamboj has been drafted in as his replacement, prompting a reshuffle of the pace battery.
Siraj’s Potential Comeback
Mohammed Siraj, who sat out the first two matches, is a strong contender to re‑enter the XI. He will be eager to find rhythm and make his mark in the limited‑overs format. Young pacers Gurnoor Brar and Aqib Nabi are also knocking on the door, while Jasprit Bumrah remains the backbone of the attack.
West Indies Chase a Consolation Victory
Even with the series out of reach, the West Indies have flashed moments of promise. Opener John Campbell provides aggressive starts, and captain Shai Hope blends stability with acceleration when required.
Further contributions from Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase and Keemo Paul will be crucial if the Caribbean side hopes to finish the series on a winning note.
Mullanpur’s ODI Inauguration
The Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh will host its first men’s ODI. Indian bowlers will be keen to see whether the pitch offers more seam and swing than the earlier venues in Thiruvananthapuram and Guwahati.
Match Details
Match: India vs West Indies, 3rd ODI
Date: Saturday, 3 October
Venue: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh
Start time: 14:00 IST
Toss: 13:30 IST
Live TV: Star Sports Network
Live streaming: JioHotstar
India Squad
- Rohit Sharma
- Shubman Gill (captain)
- Virat Kohli
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Naman Dhir
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Nitish Kumar Reddy
- Gurnoor Brar
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Anshul Kamboj
- Mohammed Siraj
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Aqib Nabi
- Dhruv Jurel
West Indies Squad
- John Campbell
- Jewel Andrew
- Keacy Carty
- Shai Hope (wk/captain)
- Amir Jangoo
- Sherfane Rutherford
- Roston Chase
- Matthew Forde
- Gudakesh Motie
- Alzarri Joseph
- Jayden Seales
- Keemo Paul
- Shamar Joseph
- Witel Lodge
