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IND vs SL 3rd ODI: 3 Important Changes India Will Do

The bilateral ODI 2024 series between India and Sri Lanka is in full swing at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. The two countries have faced each other in two out of three matches with the first resulting in a tie and the second won by Sri Lanka by 32 runs. India is currently a top ranker in the ODI charts and to maintain its position, the victory in the third match is crucial for the team.

Three key changes for the men in blue in IND vs SL 3rd ODI 2024

To craft a winning strategy, the Indian team must analyze its performance and make adjustments in the squad, such as:

Swap Arshdeep Singh with Riyan Parag

In the first match, Arshdeep Singh claimed 2 wickets and conceded 47 runs with an economy of 5.87. However, in the second he picked 0 wickets giving 58 runs at an economy rate of 6.44. Given the urgency of transforming the game tactics, the Indian team must bring Riyan Parag in his place. The pitch in Columbo is spin-friendly, adding Parag’s leg-spin in the mix will be beneficial for controlling the match by picking crucial wickets. His off-and-leg spin will add variation to the bowling front. Additionally, Parag will add stability to the lower-order line-up with his exceptional bowling skills.

Rohit Sharma should also roll his arm

Rohit Sharma bowled two overs in the second match displaying his all-rounder capabilities. He conceded just 11 runs with an economy of 5.5. Rohit’s off-spin bowling style and Washington Sundar’s right-arm off-break will help tackle left-handed batsmen. This strategy can limit the opposition’s run-scoring abilities and target middle-overs.

Bring Rishabh Pant in the place of KL Rahul

KL Rahul’s performance in the last match was visibly disappointing. Adding Rishabh Pant to the squad is a more viable option. ODI stats suggest, that Pant has a better strike rate of 106.65 than Rahul’s 87.76. Pant is a left-handed batsman who performs more aggressively on the field. His approach and intent to play the spin attacks make him a perfect candidate to be included in the probable playing eleven.

Final Thoughts

In the third ODI match, India must have a robust combination to ensure its win. From swapping Arshdeep Singh with Riyan Parag to adding Rishabh Pant to the mix, these changes are crucial for the Indian team to maintain a consistent position in the ODI ranks. Wednesday’s match will be interesting to see what adjustments Team India will make to increase its winning probability.