India and New Zealand are set to face off in the decisive third ODI of the series, with both teams eager to clinch the contest after an intense battle in the opening two matches. The series decider promises high drama as India look to make the most of home conditions, while New Zealand aim to finish strong.
Match Details
- Match: India vs New Zealand, 3rd ODI
- Date: Sunday
- Venue: Holkar Stadium, Indore
- Time: 1:30 PM IST (toss at 1:00 PM IST)
India head into the final ODI after suffering a setback in the second match, which exposed concerns around defending moderate totals. With the series on the line, the team management is expected to prioritise execution over experimentation.
Team India: What to Expect
Captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir may consider tweaking the playing XI, especially the bowling combination. The possible inclusion of Arshdeep Singh is being discussed, given his ability to strike early and at the death. India’s batting, led by Gill and supported by experienced middle-order players, will look to put up a commanding total on a batting-friendly Indore pitch.
India also boast an excellent record at the Holkar Stadium, having won all five ODIs played at the venue so far. Previous victories against England, West Indies, South Africa and Australia add to the hosts’ confidence.
New Zealand’s Approach
New Zealand will be encouraged by their performance in the second ODI and will look to carry that momentum into the decider. Their bowling unit has shown discipline, while the batting lineup has displayed the ability to chase under pressure. Consistency in execution will be key if they are to upset India at a venue where the hosts rarely lose.
Predicted Playing XIs
India (Probable XI):
Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh
New Zealand (Probable XI):
Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson (C), Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (WK), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult, Ish Sodhi
With both teams evenly matched and the series hanging in the balance, fans can expect a thrilling contest in Indore as India and New Zealand battle it out for ODI supremacy.
