New Delhi: With a commanding 2‑0 lead in the three‑match series, India steps into the third ODI with the ambition of completing a clean sweep against the West Indies. Anchored by Shubman Gill’s batting heroics, the side now needs a more incisive bowling display to seal the series.
Batting Fireworks, Bowling Hiccups
The Indian batting order has stolen the spotlight, posting massive totals in both fixtures. In stark contrast, the bowlers have struggled to produce regular wickets, particularly in the opening spell and the middle overs.
The second encounter produced over 800 runs, highlighting the batter‑friendly decks used so far. The concluding match in Mullanpur could offer a more bowler‑friendly surface, giving the pace unit a chance to bounce back.
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 placed extra strain on the middle‑phase bowlers.
Spinner Kuldeep Yadav has emerged as a reliable wicket‑taker, yet he often operates without sufficient support from the seamers.
All‑Rounders Under the Microscope
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 in the series.
Veteran Contributions
Senior campaigners Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have added valuable runs, but several squad members – including KL Rahul, Naman Dhir and Jadeja – have yet to leave a significant imprint with the bat.
Bowling Shuffle
Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna is ruled out of the third ODI with a hamstring strain. Anshul Kamboj has been called up as his replacement, prompting a reshuffle of the pace contingent.
Siraj’s Potential Return
Mohammed Siraj, who missed the first two matches, is a strong candidate to re‑enter the XI. He will be eager to regain 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 Chase a Consolation Victory
Despite the series being out of reach, the West Indies have displayed moments of promise. Opener John Campbell provides aggressive starts, and captain Shai Hope balances 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 high note.
Mullanpur’s ODI Debut
The Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh will host its first men’s ODI. Indian bowlers will be hoping the pitch offers more seam and swing than the previous 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
