The third and final ODI between India and Australia in Rajkot was no exception. In a twist of fate, Axar Patel, Shubman Gill, and Shardul Thakur found themselves absent from the India team lineup for this crucial showdown.
Axar Patel, a name that has been making waves in the cricketing world, has been sidelined due to a left quadriceps strain that has kept him off the field since the Asia Cup. The team management is keeping its fingers crossed, hoping for his swift return, especially with the impending World Cup.
The return of skipper Rohit Sharma and the talismanic batter Virat Kohli to the squad injected a sense of excitement among fans. Their absence in the first two games of the series wasn’t felt so much.
However, not all the news was as heartening. Mohammed Shami, who played a vital role in the initial games, and the dynamic all-rounder Hardik Pandya are notable absentees from the Squad.
Now, for the third ODI against Australia in Rajkot, Prasidh Krishna and Mukesh Kumar have been added to the Squad. It’s a testament to the depth of talent in Indian cricket that young players can be relied upon in high-stakes matches.
Axar Patel’s absence raises questions about his inclusion in the World Cup squad. Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector, had expressed optimism about Axar’s fitness, and the hopes still linger. However, the selectors have wisely kept backup options in the form of R Ashwin and Washington Sundar, just in case Axar doesn’t recover in time.
India’s performance in the series has been nothing short of spectacular. They clinched victories in the first and second ODIs against Australia, firmly establishing their dominance. The first win was a thrilling encounter that saw India emerge victorious by five wickets with eight balls to spare, a testament to their never-say-die spirit. Australia had put up a fight despite a shaky start, but India held their nerve.
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In the second ODI, India displayed their prowess in home conditions, posting a daunting 399 for 5. This remarkable feat was powered by centuries from Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, complemented by quickfire knocks from Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul, and Ishan Kishan. India’s bowlers then turned up the heat, restricting Australia to 217 in just 28.2 overs, well short of their DLS-revised target of 317 in 33 overs.
India’s Squad For 3rd ODI Against Australia:- Rohit Sharma(c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar, R Ashwin, Md Siraj, Surya Kumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Mukesh Kumar
