India’s Predicted XI vs West Indies, 3rd ODI: Will Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli Be Back For Series Finale?

After suffering a surprising six-wicket defeat in the second ODI, India is set to face West Indies in the series-deciding third and final match on Tuesday. In an attempt to strengthen their middle-order, India experimented with Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav in the previous game, and they will be hoping for positive outcomes in the crucial encounter against West Indies in Tarouba. Having maintained a dominant record against West Indies in ODIs since 2006, India now faces the possibility of a rare series defeat after their decision to rest captain Rohit Sharma and star batsman Virat Kohli backfired in the second match in Barbados.

Here’s what we think can be the India’s Playing XI for the 3rd ODI against West Indies:

Rohit Sharma:

Rohit Sharma, the Indian skipper, made a strategic decision to push himself down in the batting order during the first ODI. However, in the second match, he opted to sit out to allow the team to experiment with new combinations. 

Unfortunately, the experiment did not yield the desired results, as India faced a defeat in that encounter. With the series on the line in the third and final ODI, it is highly likely that Rohit Sharma will make a strong comeback to the team.

Shubman Gill:

Shubman Gill, the talented young opener, showcased his batting prowess in the previous match but could only manage to score 34 runs off 49 balls. While his innings displayed promise and composure at the crease, he would undoubtedly be eager to convert such starts into a substantial score in the third ODI.

Virat Kohli:

Virat Kohli, the star India batter had a unique start to the ODI series against West Indies. In the first match, the team management promoted Ishan Kishan up the order, and as a result, Kohli did not get an opportunity to bat. In the second match, India decided to rest both Kohli and Rohit Sharma to explore new combinations in the team. 

However, with the series on the line in the third ODI, it is highly probable that Virat Kohli will return to the Playing XI. As one of the finest batsmen in the world, Kohli’s presence in the team significantly strengthens the batting line-up. His exceptional consistency, hunger for runs, and ability to chase down targets under pressure make him a formidable force in limited-overs cricket.

Suryakumar Yadav:

Suryakumar Yadav, known for his aggressive batting in T20Is, played a decent innings in the second match, scoring 24 runs off 25 balls. His ability to rotate the strike and play attacking shots make him a valuable asset in the middle-order.

Ishan Kishan:

Ishan Kishan, the young and talented wicketkeeper-batter, has been in exceptional form in the ODI series against West Indies. In the second match, he displayed his impressive batting skills by smashing another half-century, further cementing his place in the team.

With consistent performances and the ability to make a significant impact at the top of the order, Ishan Kishan is undoubtedly expected to retain his place in the playing XI for the third ODI. His aggressive and fearless style of play has caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts and team management alike.

Hardik Pandya:

Hardik Pandya, the dynamic all-rounder, was entrusted with the captaincy responsibilities in the absence of Rohit Sharma during the second ODI. However, he had a forgettable outing as he failed to make a significant impact with both bat and ball. 

With the bat, Pandya was dismissed for just 7 runs, which was disappointing considering his potential to be a match-winner. As an all-rounder, his contributions in both departments are crucial for the team’s success.

Ravindra Jadeja:

Ravindra Jadeja, the star all-rounder, showcased his class and ability in the first ODI by scalping three wickets, living up to the expectations of fans. However, in the second match, he couldn’t replicate his heroics and went wicketless.

As a key player in the team, Jadeja’s performances with both bat and ball are crucial for India’s success. With his exceptional fielding skills adding to his repertoire, he is a complete package and a match-winner for the side.

Heading into the series decider, Ravindra Jadeja will undoubtedly be determined to deliver an impactful performance. His accurate spin bowling and ability to pick up wickets in the middle overs provide India with crucial control in the bowling department.

Shardul Thakur:

Shardul Thakur, the pace-bowling all-rounder, had a relatively mediocre outing in the first ODI. However, he bounced back impressively in the second match, showcasing his skills with the ball and claiming a valuable three-wicket haul.

With a renewed sense of confidence and momentum, Shardul Thakur will undoubtedly be eager to deliver a similar, if not better, performance in the series decider against West Indies. His ability to generate pace and extract bounce from the surface makes him a potent threat for the opposition batsmen.

Kuldeep Yadav:

Kuldeep Yadav, the talented left-arm wrist spinner, made a sensational impact in the first ODI by claiming a four-wicket haul and earning the Player of the Match award. His mesmerizing spin bowling played a significant role in India’s victory in that game.

However, in the second match, Kuldeep Yadav’s performance was relatively subdued as he could only manage to take one wicket. Cricket is a game of variations and conditions, and even the best of players face challenges in maintaining consistent performances.

Despite the dip in form in the second ODI, Kuldeep Yadav remains a key asset for the Indian team in limited-overs cricket. His ability to turn the ball sharply and deceive batsmen with his variations make him a potent weapon in the spin department.

Heading into the series decider, Kuldeep Yadav will be determined to rediscover his rhythm and make a greater impact with his spin bowling. As an experienced spinner, he understands the importance of adapting to different conditions and will look to outsmart the West Indian batsmen.

Umran Malik:

Umran Malik, the promising young pacer, has had a challenging start to his ODI career, as he has not been able to pick up any wickets in the matches played so far. However, it is essential to remember that cricket is a game of learning and adaptation, and young players often face hurdles in their initial outings.

Despite the tough start, Umran Malik’s blistering pace and raw talent have caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts and the team management. As a lethal pacer, he brings a valuable asset to the Indian bowling attack.

With the series reaching a critical juncture in the third ODI, Umran Malik will undoubtedly be determined to bounce back strongly. As a young and hungry player, he will be eager to showcase his potential and make a mark in the series decider.

Mukesh Kumar:

Mukesh Kumar, the 27-year-old pacer, made a memorable start to his ODI career by picking up his maiden wicket in the first match. However, in the second ODI, he couldn’t add to his wicket tally.

As a young bowler in the international arena, Mukesh Kumar’s journey will have its ups and downs. It is essential for young players to learn from their experiences and continue to work on their skills to improve and excel at the highest level.

Heading into the third and final ODI, Mukesh Kumar will be eager to showcase his potential once again and contribute more effectively with the ball. His ability to swing the ball and hit the right areas can make him a valuable asset in the team’s bowling attack.