Cricket
IND vs SA: India’s Predicted Playing XI for Third ODI — Will the Hosts Make Changes?
As India prepares to face South Africa in the third and deciding ODI of the ongoing multi-format series, all eyes are on the Men in Blue and the lineup they might field in this crucial clash. With the series level at 1-1, the contest at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on December 6 promises high stakes and intense competition.
Series So Far
India began the series on a strong note with a win in the first ODI in Ranchi. However, South Africa bounced back in commanding fashion in the second ODI at Raipur, producing an all-round performance to draw level.
With momentum currently shifting between both sides, the third ODI becomes the ultimate decider, adding an extra layer of pressure and excitement.
Will India Make Changes for the Series Decider?
After India’s loss in the second ODI, discussions have intensified around potential changes in the playing XI. While most of the squad is expected to remain unchanged, one name stands out for a possible swap.
Prasidh Krishna Under Pressure
Pacer Prasidh Krishna struggled heavily in the second ODI, conceding 85 runs and failing to provide breakthroughs. His performance could open the door for Nitish Kumar Reddy, the dynamic all-rounder who has impressed with both bat and ball in domestic circuits.
Adding a seam-bowling all-rounder could offer India additional balance—crucial in deciders where depth and versatility matter.
India’s Predicted Playing XI for the 3rd ODI
Based on current form, team combinations, and conditions in Visakhapatnam, India may opt for the following lineup:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Rohit Sharma (C)
- Virat Kohli
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Washington Sundar
- KL Rahul (WK)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Nitish Kumar Reddy (likely replacement for Prasidh Krishna)
- Harshit Rana
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Arshdeep Singh
Key Factors to Watch
1. Opening Pair Stability
Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal have the potential to give India an explosive start but will need to convert early momentum into a solid platform.
2. Middle-Order Resilience
Virat Kohli and KL Rahul remain central to India’s batting. Their form could dictate the pace and direction of the innings.
3. Bowling Comeback
With South Africa’s strong showing in the second ODI, the Indian bowling unit—especially the spinners—will need to bring their best to restrict the Proteas.
4. All-Round Impact
Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja could be crucial, offering both stability in the middle overs and depth in batting.
Conclusion
With the series in balance and the final ODI set to be a thriller, India’s team selection will play a decisive role. Whether India sticks to the core combination or brings in Nitish Kumar Reddy for a tactical tweak may determine the direction of the decider.
The Men in Blue will be looking to capitalize on home conditions, correct the mistakes from Raipur, and clinch the series with confidence.