The stage is set for a thrilling finale as India and England lock horns in the third and final ODI of the series at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground on Sunday, July 19. With both teams winning one match each, the series is evenly poised, and the winner of the decider will take home the trophy.
Ahead of the crucial encounter, Team India is expected to make at least two changes to its playing XI in a bid to bounce back after the defeat in the second ODI.
Kuldeep Yadav Likely to Return After Washington Sundar Injury
India have suffered a setback with Washington Sundar being ruled out of the series decider after sustaining a hamstring injury while batting in the second ODI. The all-rounder has already been released from the squad, with Harsh Dubey joining the team as his replacement.
However, for the playing XI, the Indian management is expected to bring back Kuldeep Yadav, who is yet to feature on the England tour. The left-arm wrist-spinner did not play in the T20I series and has remained on the sidelines during the first two ODIs. With the Lord's surface expected to assist spinners later in the game, Kuldeep could finally get his opportunity.
KL Rahul Set for Comeback
Another likely change could see KL Rahul return to the side after missing the second ODI due to illness. The experienced wicketkeeper-batter was unavailable in Cardiff, forcing India to hand Ishan Kishan his first ODI appearance of the tour.
Ishan, however, failed to capitalize on the opportunity, managing just one run before being dismissed cheaply. Rahul's expected return would provide much-needed stability to India's middle order and strengthen the batting lineup for the high-pressure contest.
Shivam Dube's Spot Under Scanner
All-rounder Shivam Dube is also facing uncertainty ahead of the decider. Dube registered a golden duck in the second ODI and could not contribute with the bat. Although he bowled useful spells in both matches, the team management may opt for a different combination depending on the conditions at Lord's.
If India decide to strengthen their bowling attack, an additional pacer or spinner could be preferred. On the other hand, if batting depth is the priority, the team could accommodate both KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan in the same XI.
Team Management Faces Selection Dilemma
India have multiple options to consider before the final ODI. The pace department includes players such as Arshdeep Singh and Prince Yadav, while the spin attack could be boosted by Kuldeep's return.
The final combination will largely depend on the pitch conditions and whether India prefer an extra batter or an additional wicket-taking bowler in the must-win clash.
India's Likely Playing XI vs England (3rd ODI)
Rohit Sharma
Shubman Gill (Captain)
Virat Kohli
Shreyas Iyer
Ishan Kishan
KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper)
Axar Patel
Jasprit Bumrah
Gurnoor Brar
Kuldeep Yadav
Prasidh Krishna
With the series hanging in the balance, India will be hoping the expected changes provide the perfect combination to clinch victory at the Home of Cricket and finish the England tour on a winning note.
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