The thrilling Australia tour of India, 2023, has reached its final act, and the cricketing world is eagerly awaiting the clash between India and Australia in the 3rd ODI at the Saurashtra Cricket Association in Rajkot. With the series already secured by India, Australia is left with much to prove and rectify, having lost five consecutive ODIs.
Australia’s Quest for Redemption:
Australia’s recent struggles in the ODI format have raised questions and concerns among fans and pundits alike. Their consecutive losses have left them with no room for error as they approach the upcoming World Cup. The need to address their batting inconsistencies and other issues is paramount.
Australia’s hope for resurgence hinges on their floundering batting unit, which has yet to find its rhythm. The flat track at the Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Ground, where the highest chase achieved is 263-3 by Australia against India in 1986, presents an opportunity for their batters to shine. Key players like Mitchell Marsh and Glenn Maxwell will be looking to showcase their prowess and lead Australia to a much-needed victory.
India’s Dominance and Preparation:
Team India has been in sensational form, setting the stage for the upcoming World Cup in style. Despite missing several regular players, they clinched the Asia Cup and secured the ODI series against Australia with a convincing win in the second ODI at Indore.
In the second ODI, India’s batting display was nothing short of spectacular. Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer notched brilliant centuries, and Suryakumar Yadav’s whirlwind 72 off 37 balls propelled them to a formidable total of 399-5. Their bowlers then displayed their mettle by dismissing Australia for 217, securing a 99-run victory via the DLS method.
The third ODI will see the return of India’s regular captain, Rohit Sharma, along with Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Kuldeep Yadav. All of these key players are expected to feature in the playing XI, marking this match as their final international appearance before the World Cup. However, Shubman Gill and Shardul Thakur are set to be rested for this fixture.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, both in exceptional form, are likely to continue their dominance against Australia. The bowling department will feature Ravichandran Ashwin, who excelled in the previous match with figures of 3-41, alongside the in-form Kuldeep Yadav.
Predicted Playing XIs:
For India:
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Ishan Kishan
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Ravindra Jadeja
- R Ashwin
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
For Australia:
- (Expected lineup)
Match Prediction:
As the 3rd ODI approaches, both India and Australia are anticipated to field near full-strength squads, setting the stage for a riveting contest. India enters the match as the clear favorite, given their recent success and momentum. However, Australia’s competitive spirit and hunger for redemption should not be underestimated.
Australia, smarting from two consecutive losses, will be determined to salvage some pride in the final match of the series. The flat pitch offers them the perfect opportunity to showcase their batting prowess and prove their mettle. Mitchell Marsh and Glenn Maxwell, in particular, hold the key to Australia’s resurgence.
Nevertheless, India, with their remarkable form and balance, remains the more favored side. Their batting unit, in particular, has been in astounding form, and it will be a daunting task for even the regular Australian bowling attack to contain them.
In light of these factors, the prediction for the 3rd ODI leans in favor of India, as they aim to complete a clean sweep and make it 3-0.
Prediction: India to win.
Cricket enthusiasts and fans of both teams await this final showdown, hoping for a thrilling contest and a memorable conclusion to what has been an enthralling series. India’s dominance and Australia’s quest for revival promise to create a captivating spectacle at the Saurashtra Cricket Association in Rajkot.
