New Delhi: Riding a 2‑0 advantage in the three‑match bilateral, India steps into the third One‑Day International with the goal of a clean sweep against the West Indies. Anchored by Shubman Gill’s bat, the side hopes to pair its scoring fireworks with a more incisive bowling effort.
Batting Fireworks, Bowling Hiccups
India’s top order has dominated the series narrative, posting imposing totals in both fixtures. In stark contrast, the pace and spin units have struggled to produce regular wickets, especially in the opening spell and during the middle overs.
The second encounter witnessed a combined tally of over 800 runs, highlighting the batting‑friendly nature of the surfaces used so far. The upcoming contest at Mullanpur offers a chance for a greener seam track that could aid the Indian bowlers.
Powerplay Woes
Across the first two games India managed just a single wicket in each powerplay, leaking a total of 177 runs in those ten‑over periods. The scarcity of early breakthroughs has placed added strain on the middle‑phase attack.
Spinner Kuldeep Yadav has emerged as a reliable wicket‑taker, yet he often finds himself without sufficient backing from the other bowlers.
All‑Rounders in Focus
Veteran all‑rounder Ravindra Jadeja, despite his experience, has claimed only three wickets in his last eight outings. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill continues to dominate with the bat, already boasting a century and an unbeaten 223 across the series.
Senior Contributions
Seasoned campaigners Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have added valuable runs, but several squad members – including KL Rahul, Naman Dhir and Jadeja – are yet to make a substantial impact with the bat.
Bowling Shuffle
Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna sits out the third ODI after suffering a hamstring strain. Anshul Kamboj has been drafted in as his replacement, prompting a reshuffle of the pace contingent.
Siraj’s Potential Return
Mohammed Siraj, who missed the opening two matches, is a strong candidate 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 vying for spots, while Jasprit Bumrah remains the backbone of the attack.
West Indies Hunt for Consolation
Even with the series already lost, the West Indies have shown sparks 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 essential if the Caribbean side hopes to finish the series on a winning note.
Mullanpur’s ODI Debut
The Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh will host its inaugural men’s ODI. Indian bowlers will be hoping 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
