The third and final ODI between India and Afghanistan in Chennai presents a crucial opportunity for several players. While India aims for a clean sweep, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, and Harshit Rana are under particular focus.
Jaiswal's Chance to Cement ODI Spot
Yashasvi Jaiswal, returning to the 50-over format for the first time since December 2025, was dismissed for just 4 in the second match. Despite a previous unbeaten 116 against South Africa, the return of Ishan Kishan has intensified competition for top-order spots. With skipper Shubman Gill dropping to No. 3 to accommodate Jaiswal, and Virat Kohli expected to reclaim the No. 3 slot upon recovery, Jaiswal must capitalize on limited opportunities. A failure could jeopardize his place in the upcoming ODI tour of England, as the selection panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, is known for ruthlessness.
KL Rahul's Adjustments
KL Rahul faces a different challenge. With Shreyas Iyer back, Rahul is likely to bat at No. 6, moving from his preferred No. 5 spot where he has averaged 63.2. His numbers at No. 6 are modest—332 runs in 15 matches at 41.5—but he must adapt to playing quick innings or cameos to maximize the team total.
Harshit Rana Returns
Pacer Harshit Rana has rejoined the squad after rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. He may replace Arshdeep Singh, providing a handy lower-order batting option in the absence of injured Nitish Kumar Reddy. The team management also aims to assess Gurnoor Brar in different conditions.
Afghanistan's Struggles
Afghanistan, outplayed in both ODIs, will seek to end the series on a positive note. Their batting and bowling have lacked gumption, and they need a stronger performance to salvage pride.
Teams:
India: Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer (vc), KL Rahul (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Harshit Rana.
Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Rahmat Shah, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharotai, AM Ghazanfar, Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi, Fareed Malik, Bilal Sami.
Match starts at 1:30 pm.
