New Delhi: Riding a 2‑0 advantage in the three‑match series, India steps into the third ODI with the ambition of a clean sweep over the West Indies. Anchored by Shubman Gill’s bat, the side hopes to pair its scoring firepower with a more incisive bowling effort.

Batting Prowess Meets Bowling Inconsistency

The Indian top order has dominated the narrative, posting imposing totals in both previous games. In contrast, the pace and spin units have struggled to break through consistently, particularly in the opening spell and during the middle overs.

The second encounter yielded more than 800 runs, highlighting the batter‑friendly nature of the pitches used so far. The final clash at Mullanpur could present a surface that offers a little more assistance to the seamers.

Powerplay Challenges

Across the first two fixtures, India managed just a single wicket in each powerplay, surrendering a combined 177 runs in those ten‑over bursts. The scarcity of early breakthroughs has placed added strain on the middle‑over plans.

Spinner Kuldeep Yadav has emerged as a reliable wicket‑taker, yet he often finds himself without sufficient support from the other bowlers.

All‑Rounders in the Spotlight

All‑rounder Ravindra Jadeja, despite his experience, has claimed only three wickets in his last eight outings. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill continues to dominate with the bat, already boasting a century and an unbeaten 223 in the series.

Veteran Contributions

Seasoned campaigners Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have added valuable runs, but several squad members – including KL Rahul, Naman Dhir and Jadeja – are yet to make a significant impact with the bat.

Bowling Adjustments

Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna is ruled out of the third ODI after sustaining a hamstring strain. Anshul Kamboj has been called up as his replacement, prompting a reshuffle of the pace attack.

Siraj’s Potential Return

Mohammed Siraj, who missed the opening two games, is a strong candidate to re‑enter the XI. He will be eager to find rhythm and leave his mark in the limited‑overs format. Young quicks Gurnoor Brar and Aqib Nabi are also pushing for selection, while Jasprit Bumrah remains the linchpin of the attack.

West Indies Hunt for a Consolation Win

Even with the series already lost, the West Indies have shown moments of promise. Opener John Campbell provides aggressive starts, and captain Shai Hope blends stability with acceleration when the situation demands.

Additional contributions from Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase and Keemo Paul will be crucial if the Caribbean side hopes to close the tour with a victory.

Mullanpur’s ODI Debut

The Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh will host its first men’s ODI. Indian bowlers will be hoping the pitch delivers more seam and swing than the earlier venues in Thiruvananthapuram and Guwahati.

Match Details

Match: India vs West Indies, 3rd ODI

Date: Saturday, 3 October

Venue: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh

Start time: 14:00 IST

Toss: 13:30 IST

Live TV: Star Sports Network

Live streaming: JioHotstar

India Squad

  • Rohit Sharma
  • Shubman Gill (captain)
  • Virat Kohli
  • Ruturaj Gaikwad
  • KL Rahul (wk)
  • Naman Dhir
  • Ravindra Jadeja
  • Nitish Kumar Reddy
  • Gurnoor Brar
  • Kuldeep Yadav
  • Anshul Kamboj
  • Mohammed Siraj
  • Yashasvi Jaiswal
  • Aqib Nabi
  • Dhruv Jurel

West Indies Squad

  • John Campbell
  • Jewel Andrew
  • Keacy Carty
  • Shai Hope (wk/captain)
  • Amir Jangoo
  • Sherfane Rutherford
  • Roston Chase
  • Matthew Forde
  • Gudakesh Motie
  • Alzarri Joseph
  • Jayden Seales
  • Keemo Paul
  • Shamar Joseph
  • Witel Lodge