New Delhi: Holding a 2‑0 advantage in the three‑match set‑up, India steps into the third ODI with the ambition of a clean sweep over the West Indies. Guided by captain Shubman Gill, the side intends to pair its explosive batting with a more incisive bowling display.

Batting Flourish Meets Bowling Inconsistency

The Indian top order has stolen the limelight, piling up massive scores in both fixtures. In stark contrast, the bowlers have struggled to break through early, often faltering in the opening overs and the middle spell.

The second encounter produced north of 800 runs, highlighting the bat‑friendly surfaces used so far. The showdown at Mullanpur could present a slightly greener pitch for the seamers.

Powerplay Woes

Across the opening two games, India managed merely a single wicket in each powerplay, surrendering a combined 177 runs in those ten‑over bursts. The dearth of early breakthroughs has shifted the burden onto the middle overs.

Spinner Kuldeep Yadav has emerged as a reliable wicket‑taker, yet he often operates without sufficient support from his pace partners.

All‑Rounders Under Scrutiny

All‑rounder Ravindra Jadeja, despite his wealth of experience, has claimed only three scalps in his last eight outings. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill continues to dominate with the bat, already chalking up 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 – have yet to make a substantial impact with the bat.

Bowling Shake‑up

Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna is ruled out of the third ODI due to a hamstring strain. Anshul Kamboj has been drafted in as his replacement, prompting a reshuffle of the pace contingent.

Siraj’s Potential Return

Mohammed Siraj, who missed the first two matches, is a strong candidate to re‑enter the XI. He will be eager to find rhythm and leave his mark in the limited‑overs arena. Young pacers Gurnoor Brar and Aqib Nabi are also knocking on the door, while Jasprit Bumrah remains the backbone of the attack.

West Indies Hunt for Consolation

Even with the series out of reach, the West Indies have displayed moments of promise. Opener John Campbell offers aggressive starts, and captain Shai Hope blends stability with acceleration when required.

Further contributions from Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase and Keemo Paul will be crucial if the Caribbean side hopes to finish the series on a high note.

Mullanpur’s ODI Debut

The Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh will host its inaugural men’s ODI. Indian bowlers will be hoping the surface provides 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