Team India are gearing up for a must-win clash against Sri Lanka in the third ODI in Colombo on Wednesday, August 7. They are trailing 1-0 in the three-match series after suffering a 32-run defeat in the second match. The Men in Blue were on the brink of victory in the series opener, but a dramatic collapse resulted in the match ending in a tie.
This is the first time in 27 years that India will not win a bilateral ODI series against Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, the Island nation has a great opportunity to script history by registering its maiden win against the Men in Blue since 1997. India cannot afford any loopholes and expect some changes in the upcoming match.
Here are three changes India might make in 3rd ODI
3. KL Rahul replaced by Rishabh Pant
Senior India batter KL Rahul made his much-awaited return to the national side but failed to live up to the expectations in both matches. The keeper-batsman scored 31 runs in the first match but was dismissed for a two-ball duck in the previous game. Analysing the current situation, India might bring Rishabh Pant in the line-up. The southpaw is a fearless batter and can get the team out of trouble by scoring aggressively.
2. Riyan Parag in place of Shivam Dube
It might not be a surprise if India adds Riyan Parag to the playing XI for the final ODI. The Colombo pitch is assisting the spinners more and the Assam cricketer has already displayed what he can do with the ball during the T20I series. With Pant coming to the line-up, India will be having the service of a left-hander in the middle and no need to rely on Dube.
1. Khaleel Ahmed for Arshdeep Singh
Although Arshdeep Singh had a forgettable night with the bat in the first ODI, he was impressive with the ball, picking up two wickets in eight overs. However, he failed to take any wickets in the second match after conceding an economy of 5.90. Khaleel Ahmed, who was benched in the first two matches, may replace Arshdeep in the final match. The left-arm pacer has taken 15 wickets in 11 ODIs.
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