The third and final ODI between India and Australia is set to unfold at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, with both teams having distinct objectives. While India aims to whitewash the series with a 3-0 win, Australia seeks to break free from their recent string of ODI losses. With two comprehensive victories in the first two ODIs, India holds a commanding 2-0 lead.
India’s Dominance
India’s domination in the series has been evident, showcasing exceptional skills both with the bat and the ball. With a series victory already secured, the Men in Blue are poised to experiment and fine-tune their squad ahead of the upcoming ODI World Cup in India.
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Australia’s Struggles
On the flip side, Australia’s ODI campaign has been fraught with challenges, marked by five consecutive losses, including three against South Africa and two against India. The visitors are eager to break free from this losing streak in the series finale.
Australia’s Best XI for the 3rd ODI against India
In pursuit of redemption, Australia has made some significant changes to their playing XI for the third ODI. Notable omissions include Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Matthew Short, and Cameron Green. Here is the revamped Australia playing XI:
- David Warner: David Warner has been in solid form, notching back-to-back half-centuries in the series. However, he will be eager to convert these starts into more substantial scores and steer the team towards victory.
- Mitchell Marsh: The aggressive Mitchell Marsh, though missing the second ODI, brings dynamism to the side. Australia relies on his power-hitting abilities as he pairs up with Warner at the top of the order.
- Alex Carey (wk): Although missing from the first match and contributing just 14 runs in the second, Alex Carey showcased exceptional wicketkeeping skills. Facing competition from Josh Inglis, Carey will be keen to make a lasting impression.
- Glenn Maxwell: Despite a challenging year due to injuries, Glenn Maxwell’s inclusion in the ODI World Cup 2023 squad emphasizes his extensive experience in Indian conditions. Australia banks on his explosive all-round abilities to be a potential match-winner.
- Marcus Stoinis: Positioned at number 5, Marcus Stoinis adds an attacking flair to the batting lineup. With the ability to accelerate scoring, Stoinis aims to make a substantial impact in the upcoming fixture.
- Josh Inglis (wk): Inglis, the talented batter and wicketkeeper, provides an additional option for Australia. His performance in this game will be closely scrutinized by selectors. If he performs better than Carey, than he might be having an upper hand.
- Pat Cummins (c): Pat Cummins, serving as the captain, exhibits fearlessness in facing challenges. His transition from red-ball success to ODIs has been a work in progress, but his leadership remains crucial.
- Sean Abbott: A key figure in Australia’s playing XI, Sean Abbott adds depth to the batting order and contributes with the heavily with the ball as well. His all-round abilities make him a valuable asset for the team.
- Tanveer Sangha: Tanveer Sangha, the young spinner, brings his unique skill set to the team. His ability to disrupt the opposition’s batting lineup makes him an exciting prospect. Also, there are high chances that he might trouble the Indian batters.
- Mitchell Starc: The experienced campaigner of World Cup campaigns, Mitchell Starc’s fitness concerns have been a topic of discussion. Nevertheless, his match practice ahead of the marquee event remains vital.
- Adam Zampa: Australia’s trump card in dismissing key opponents, Adam Zampa has displayed his wicket-taking prowess in the series. Addressing concerns regarding his economy rate will be a priority.
The third and final ODI clash between India and Australia is set to unfold at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot on Wednesday, September 27. As the series hangs in the balance, India holds a commanding 2-0 lead, with Australia keen to avoid a clean sweep.