3rd ODI Against Australia
It’s been a humdinger of a series so far. After Australia took the first ODI, you were on the edge of your seat hoping India would strike back in the second to level things. And strike back they did, with a vengeance. Now the series is all set up for a thrilling decider. As an Indian fan, can you even imagine how epic it would be if India went on to seal the series in front of a packed crowd in Indore?
The boys in blue have had the wood over Australia in recent ODIs at home, racking up win after win. Kohli is in imperious form as usual and the pace attack looks as dangerous as ever. But you just know the baggy greens will come out fighting for national pride. Warner and Finch are always a threat at the top, and Smith would love to stick it to India after the Test series.
This is going down to the wire. After two cracking matches, the stage is set for a fitting finale. Can India get over the line and claim another huge win at home? Or will Australia spoil the party and escape with the trophy? Only a few hours until we find out! Get ready for an absolute thriller.
India vs Australia: The Series So Far
The 3-match series is currently poised at 1-1, with everything to play for in the decider.
India won the opener comfortably
India cruised to victory in the first ODI, chasing down Australia’s 264/9 with 13 overs to spare. Openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan were in sublime form, posting a mammoth 258-run stand to get India off to a flier. The Aussie bowlers had no answers as the Indian batsmen took them to the cleaners.
Australia bounced back to level the series
The Aussies came back hard in the second ODI though, posting a formidable 389/4 on the back of centuries from Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell. The Indian bowlers were put to the sword on a flat Mohali track as Smith and Maxwell shared a 213-run stand. In response, India were never really in the hunt and finished on 338/9, handing the Aussies a 51-run win.
It’s all to play for in the decider
With the series on the line, expect a cracker of a contest in the third ODI. The Indians will be keen to continue their recent ODI dominance over Australia but the visitors have shown they will not go down without a fight. Much will depend on how India contain Smith and Maxwell, and how Australia cope with the might of India’s top order. Win or lose, fans are in for a high-scoring thriller to round off what has been an entertaining series so far. Place your bets, sit back and enjoy!
Key Players to Watch in the 3rd ODI
This ODI will come down to which team’s star players perform. For India, that means captain Virat Kohli and vice-captain Rohit Sharma. ###
Kohli is in solid form and looking to continue his dominant run of scores. If he gets settled in and finds his timing, Australia’s bowlers will have their work cut out for them. Rohit is an attacking opener who can take the game away from the opposition when he’s on song. His ability to score big hundreds makes him a threat every time he walks out to bat.
For Australia, Steve Smith and David Warner are the dangermen. ###
Smith is a technically sound top-order batsman and one of the best in the world. His unconventional style and patient accumulation of runs will test India’s bowling attack. Warner is an aggressive left-hander who likes to dominate the bowlers. If he gets off to a quick start, India will need to find a way to dislodge him early.
This match also marks the return of all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, who provides balance to Australia’s side with his medium-pace bowling and power-hitting lower down the order. His skills could prove decisive in this high-pressure game.
With world-class players on both sides eager to gain an advantage in the series, fans are in for an entertaining showdown. All eyes will be on Kohli, Rohit, Smith and Warner – if any of these superstars fire, their team will have the edge. But there are no certainties in sport, especially when India and Australia meet. This promises to be another classic chapter in the storied rivalry between these cricket giants.
India’s Bowling Attack vs Australia’s Batting Lineup
India’s bowling attack will be up against Australia’s star-studded batting lineup in the 3rd ODI. Can India’s bowlers get the better of Australia’s batsmen and help seal the series?
India’s Bowling Attack
India’s pace bowlers Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah will lead the charge. They’ll look to take early wickets and apply pressure. The spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal will aim to choke the flow of runs in the middle overs with their variations.
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar: The experienced swing bowler will look to bowl tight lines and lengths upfront to restrict the openers. He’ll try to induce edges to the slips with his late swing.
- Mohammed Shami: The quick bowler will bowl aggressively, attacking the stumps and looking for lbws and bowleds. His extra pace and bounce could trouble the Australians.
- Jasprit Bumrah: The star bowler will look to outthink the batsmen with his variations in pace and length. His yorkers and slower balls have bamboozled many batsmen. He’ll aim to break partnerships in the middle overs.
- Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal: The spin twins will try to put brakes on the scoring rate by bowling a tight line and varying their pace and trajectory. Their googlys and flippers could catch the batsmen by surprise.
Australia’s Batting Lineup
Australia’s top order featuring Aaron Finch, David Warner and Steve Smith will look to dominate India’s bowlers. The middle order with Marnus Labuschagne and Glenn Maxwell can launch an attack if the top order lays a good foundation.
- David Warner and Aaron Finch: The destructive openers will aim to get Australia off to a flyer in the first powerplay. If they get going, India’s bowlers will have a tough time.
- Steve Smith: The maverick batsman could anchor the innings and bat deep. He has a knack of scoring big and will look to do the same here. His unconventional style makes him hard to contain.
- Marnus Labuschagne and Glenn Maxwell: The middle order batsmen are capable of scoring quickly and could take the game away from India if they get in early. Their wide range of strokes will test the Indian spinners.
The battle between India’s bowlers and Australia’s batsmen will determine if India can seal the series in the 3rd ODI or if Australia stays alive to push it to the final match. The side that wins more of these mini-battles within the match may
Australia’s Bowlers Look to Bounce Back
Australia’s bowlers will be looking to bounce back after India dominated with the bat in the first two ODIs. The Aussie quicks, led by Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, have struggled to take wickets on the flat decks in Sydney and Canberra. If the pitch in Melbourne is another road, the bowlers will need to adjust their tactics.
Try Different Approaches
The fast bowlers may need to try different approaches to unsettle the Indian batsmen. Bowling short to intimidating batsmen like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma hasn’t worked so far. The quicks could pitch the ball up further to try and swing it, or take the pace off and bowl cutters and cross-seam deliveries. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa has also gone wicketless in two matches and needs to vary his lines and lengths to challenge the batsmen.
Contain Kohli and Rohit
Dismissing Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma early will be key to Australia’s chances. These two have scored over 600 runs between them already in the series. The bowlers will have to bowl tight lines and set aggressive field placings to restrain their strokeplay and build pressure. Forcing them to take risks could lead to their downfall.
Vary Bowling Changes
Aaron Finch should be proactive with his bowling changes to throw India off their rhythm. Quick bowling spells and rotating his options may yield more success than longer spells which allow batsmen to settle. Throwing in all-rounders like Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell may also provide a surprise element.
Fielding Must Improve
Australia’s fielding has been subpar, with several costly dropped catches and fumbles. Tightening up in the field will be critical to backing up the bowlers. Saving runs in the field and creating pressure will be needed if the bowlers are to stand a chance against this formidable Indian batting lineup.
If Australia’s bowlers can make the necessary adjustments and get good support from the fielders, they have a chance to bounce back in Melbourne. But if India’s batsmen get on top again, it may already be too late to prevent them from sealing the series.
The Importance of the Toss and Pitch Conditions
The toss and pitch conditions will play an important role in determining the outcome of this match. Winning the toss will be crucial for either captain in this day-night encounter.
Toss
If India win the toss, Virat Kohli will likely choose to bowl first. The dew factor comes into play in day-night games, making the ball wet and difficult to grip for bowlers later on. By bowling first, India’s bowlers can take advantage of the moisture in the pitch and air early on. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah will be eager to exploit these conditions with the new ball.
Should Aaron Finch win the toss for Australia, he may also opt to bowl. The Aussie quicks would relish bowling under lights with the pink ball. Either way, the team that bowls first will hold the upper hand in the first innings before the dew sets in.
Pitch Conditions
The pitch at the Sydney Cricket Ground tends to favor batsmen, with true bounce and little sideways movement. However, the pink ball may swing more under lights, assisting seamers. Spinners could also find some purchase from the pitch later on. With shorter square boundaries, sixes could rain if batsmen get set.
A typical ODI score here is around 280-320 runs. If either Kohli or Finch choose to bat first after winning the toss, their batsmen will need to make the most of ideal batting conditions in the first innings. Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne will be key for Australia, while India will rely on Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul to set a big target.
In the end, the interplay between the toss, pitch, and ball will shape this contest. The captain who reads the conditions best and takes early advantage will gain the upper hand. With the series on the line, the stakes couldn’t be higher for these two cricketing giants.
Key Battles That Could Decide the 3rd ODI
The 3rd ODI between India and Australia is shaping up to be an exciting contest, with several key battles that could determine the outcome.
Rohit Sharma vs Pat Cummins
Rohit Sharma has been in sublime form, scoring two consecutive centuries in the first two ODIs. The Australian pace spearhead Pat Cummins will be tasked with getting Rohit out early. If Rohit gets set, he can take the game away from the Aussies. Cummins will need to use his variations and extra pace to outfox Rohit. This battle between two modern ODI greats could be pivotal.
Virat Kohli vs Adam Zampa
Virat Kohli hasn’t fired yet in the series, but you know he’s due for a big one. Leg spinner Adam Zampa has troubled Kohli in the past, dismissing him four times in ODIs. Zampa will look to attack Kohli’s weaknesses against spin with his wrong’uns and sliders. If Zampa can get Kohli out cheaply, it’ll be a massive boost for Australia. Expect some verbal volleys too in this spicy contest!
Hardik Pandya vs Marcus Stoinis
Hardik Pandya has been promoted up the order to number five and has been in good form. Marcus Stoinis has struggled with the bat recently but is a useful seam-bowling all-rounder. Stoinis will likely target Pandya with short-pitched deliveries to unsettle him. If Pandya gets going, his flamboyant strokeplay could take the game away rapidly. This battle may influence which all-rounder has the bigger impact.
Jasprit Bumrah vs Steve Smith
Steve Smith has been Australia’s most consistent batsman in the series. But he faces a threat from India’s pace ace Jasprit Bumrah, who has dismissed Smith three times in ODIs. Bumrah will rely on his unorthodox action and variations to outmaneuver Smith. Smith is in good touch and will look to counterattack. Whichever batsman comes out on top here could steer their team into a winning position.
The outcome of these individual contests and mini-battles within the war could determine if India can seal the series or if Australia stays alive. Let the games begin!
India’s Predicted Playing XI vs Australia
India would want to seal the series in the 3rd ODI against Australia with a win. Here is India’s predicted playing XI for the match:
Openers:
Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan
The experienced opening duo should retain their spots. They have scored decently in the first two ODIs and would look to get big scores in the series decider.
Middle Order:
Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul
The reliable middle order of Kohli, Iyer and Rahul should remain unchanged. Kohli and Iyer have been among the runs and Rahul provides stability.
All-Rounders:
Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja
The two premier all-rounders pick themselves. Pandya and Jadeja provide balance with both bat and ball. They can chip in with quick runs down the order and bowl useful overs.
Bowlers:
Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal and Jasprit Bumrah
The quartet of Shami, Kuldeep, Chahal and Bumrah make up a formidable bowling attack. They have already taken the majority of Australian wickets in the series so far and would be raring to have another go at the opposition batsmen.
India should play to their strengths in the series decider. The top order needs to get big scores while the middle order provides stability. The all-rounders and bowlers balance the side well and make India strong contenders. If India can put in a complete performance with both bat and ball, they stand a great chance of clinching the series.
The predicted playing XI covers all areas and appears extremely balanced on paper. However, cricket is a funny game and Australia will come hard at India in the 3rd ODI. India will have to be at the top of their game to overcome the challenges and seal a series win.
Can India Seal the Series in the 3rd ODI Against Australia?
India took a 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against Australia after a thrilling win in the 2nd ODI. They now have a chance to clinch the series in the 3rd ODI at the Manuka Oval in Canberra.
Bowlers on song
India’s bowlers have been in formidable form, restricting Australia to sub-par totals in both matches. Pacers Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammad Shami and Jasprit Bumrah have bowled with pace and precision. Spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal have also kept the Aussie batters in check with their guile and variations. If the bowlers continue their good work, they can restrict Australia again.
Openers need to fire
While India’s middle order has scored runs, the opening pair of Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma has failed to get going. For India to post a big total, it is crucial that the openers provide a solid start. Their experience and talent make them a formidable duo, so if they find their rhythm it would give India’s innings the impetus it needs.
Australia under pressure
The hosts have their backs to the wall after losing the first two matches. Another defeat would mean they lose the series, so they will go all out to win. However, the additional pressure could work against them. If India gets early wickets, Australia may crumble under the weight of expectations. India will look to capitalize on Australia’s desperation and seal the series.
Chasing has been key
An interesting pattern has emerged in the series with the team batting second going on to win. Chasing under lights at the Manuka Oval could be tricky, so the toss may play an important role in the outcome. If India wins the toss, they may opt to field first and back themselves to chase down the target. Batting second in a day-night match worked for India in the 2nd ODI, so they may stick to the same strategy.
If India’s bowlers continue their impressive form, the openers provide a solid start and they opt to chase at the Manuka Oval, they have a great chance to win the 3rd ODI and clinch the series against Australia. Victory would give India a huge boost of confidence ahead of the T20I series and test series Down Under.
India vs Australia 3rd ODI: Match Prediction and Analysis
India and Australia will face off for the third and final match of the ODI series on March 13th. With the series tied at 1-1, this match will be the decider and both teams will be looking to seal the series. India has the home advantage at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, but Australia will be riding high after their win in the last match. This sets the stage for an exciting and action-packed final showdown.
Team News
India’s batting finally came good in the 2nd ODI with skipper Virat Kohli leading the way with a sublime century. They will likely retain the same batting line-up. The bowling, however, remains a concern. Jasprit Bumrah’s absence is sorely felt and the young pace attack struggled against Australia’s batsmen. Some changes could be on the cards, potentially bringing in Navdeep Saini or Mohammed Siraj.
Australia will also stick with the same team that brought them success in the previous match. Their top order is in good form, but middle order issues remain. Ashton Turner and Alex Carey will need to step up if early wickets fall. The pace trio of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Kane Richardson were impressive and should retain their spots. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa is also a key weapon on Indian pitches.
Match Prediction
This match is too close to call with so much riding on the outcome. While India has the home field advantage, Australia’s victory in the last ODI will give them confidence. The key will be which team’s bowlers can restrict the opposition batsmen. Both teams have power-packed lineups, so early wickets will be crucial.
India’s spinners may prove decisive on a turning Delhi pitch, but Australia has the pace to rattle India’s top order. The team that wins the battle of the bowlers should come out on top in this high-pressure series decider. Regardless of the result, fans are in for a thriller as these cricket giants fight for the trophy.
Conclusion
So there you have it, all the analysis and speculation leading up to the match. Now it’s time for the real action to unfold on the field. Can India continue their dominant run and seal the series with a win today? Or will Australia stage an upset to keep the series alive? Only time will tell. One thing’s for sure though, with the talent and skill on display, we’re in for an absolute cracker of a match. Grab your snacks, get comfy on the couch, and enjoy every ball, boundary, and wicket. The battle for series supremacy begins now. Let the games begin!
