In the third and decisive ODI match to be held in Visakhapatnam on Saturday, India will have only one goal — to win the series and put an end to the continuous criticism.
Sports News: The third and decisive match of the three-match ODI series between India and South Africa will be played in Visakhapatnam on Saturday. The series is currently tied at 1-1, and this match will play a decisive role for both teams. The Indian team has only one objective — to win the series and silence the recent criticism. On such an occasion, match-winning performances will be expected from the team's experienced players, especially captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli: The Biggest Weapon of Experience
The Indian team is currently relying on the experience of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Kohli has scored two centuries and a half-century in his last three innings, while Rohit Sharma has made one century and two half-centuries in four innings. In such decisive encounters, the experience of these two players proves to be the biggest support for the team. Their class and understanding of the game can guide India to victory.
Ruturaj Gaikwad performed brilliantly in previous innings, but young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal is not yet in full rhythm. His biggest challenge has been against left-arm fast bowlers. In his international career so far, he has faced such bowlers 30 times and has lost his wicket on several occasions. If Yashasvi does not perform well in this match, the team management might consider giving Gaikwad an opportunity to open.
Pitch Report: Trends in India's Favour
The pitch in Visakhapatnam is considered favourable for batsmen. India has won 7 out of 10 ODIs played here so far, though they suffered a loss against Australia last time. Dew could also play a crucial role during the match. However, India has not won the toss in its last 20 ODI matches, which could affect strategy and initial batting.
India might make changes to its playing eleven. Washington Sundar could be rested, and Tilak Varma might get an opportunity in his place. Tilak would not only strengthen the middle order but could also prove useful for the team with his spin bowling and excellent fielding. Rishabh Pant is also an option, but considering team balance, Tilak might be prioritized.
Expected Performance from Bowlers
Arshdeep Singh has bowled impressively with the new ball. The team expects Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana to also return to rhythm and provide crucial breakthroughs. Krishna's form looked a bit weak in the last match, but the team management is in a position to show confidence in him. All-rounder Nitish could also be used as a strategic option.
South Africa also wants to win the ODI series after securing the Test series. However, their team is concerned about the fitness of Nandre Burger and Tony de Zorzi, as both players were injured in the last match.
Probable Playing Eleven
India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul (Captain & Wicketkeeper), Washington Sundar/Tilak Varma, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, and Prasidh Krishna.
South Africa: Aiden Markram, Quinton de Kock (Wicketkeeper), Temba Bavuma (Captain), Matthew Breetzke, Ryaan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, and Ottniel Baartman.
