Predicting India’s Playing XI for 3rd Test against New Zealand

India faces a must-win scenario in the upcoming third Test against New Zealand to retain their top position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. With a 2-0 deficit in the series, India must secure victory on their home ground at the Wankhede Stadium, which favors spin. 

Although reports suggested Jasprit Bumrah might sit out, he is expected to play, giving India’s pace attack a considerable boost. This match, India’s last before they embark on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy tour, requires strong performances from both the batting and bowling units, as the stakes for retaining the WTC top spot are higher than ever.

Probable India’s Playing XI:

Top Order:

India’s top-order batting has been inconsistent throughout the series, placing more pressure on the middle order. Rohit Sharma, as captain, will be aiming for a strong start alongside young Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has shown promise but will need to solidify his role in this game. 

Meanwhile, Shubman Gill too faces the task of rediscovering his form to avoid another top-order collapse. The team is banking on a stable start from this trio to set a solid foundation, particularly with the Wankhede’s spin-friendly surface in mind, as runs from the top order could be pivotal for India’s success.

Middle Order: 

Virat Kohli will lead the middle-order effort, where experience is desperately needed. Sarfaraz Khan, though relatively new to Test cricket, has shown his potential but must deliver under pressure. Rishabh Pant’s explosive batting adds a dynamic edge, yet his recent inconsistencies call for a balanced approach in this high-stakes match. 

Lower Middle Order: 

India’s lower middle order, packed with spin all-rounders, is expected to thrive on a pitch that favors turn from Day 2 onwards. Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin’s experience with both bat and ball will be crucial, especially on a surface suited to their skills. 

Washington Sundar, joining the spin trio, complements the unit with his lower-order resilience and off-spin. This order’s ability to add critical runs and then transition smoothly into bowling will be pivotal, making them essential to India’s hopes of challenging New Zealand.

Tailenders: 

Mohammed Siraj, paired with Bumrah, rounds off India’s bowling attack, expected to exploit any early movement on a bouncy Day 1 pitch. Bumrah’s aggression and control make him a significant asset in breaking partnerships, while Siraj’s pace offers variety. 

Together, they provide the backbone of India’s pace attack, which will play a vital role, especially if the spinners fail to claim quick breakthroughs. Their ability to maintain pressure on New Zealand’s batter is essential to India’s strategy of restricting runs and forcing mistakes.

Disclaimer: This exclusive news is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and intuition. While reviewing this information, consider the points discussed and form your own conclusions.

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