Xtra Time Web Desk: With the T20I series against Afghanistan firmly secured, Team India is poised to pursue a 3-0 whitewash as they clash in the third and final match in Bengaluru. The hosts might use this opportunity to test their bench strength at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday.
The return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli after a 14-month hiatus added significant intrigue to the series. Kohli, absent in the series opener due to personal reasons, showcased his positive intent with a 16 ball 29 runs in Indore. In contrast, Rohit has struggled, being run out for a duck in Mohali and falling to Fazalhaq Farooqi’s delivery in Indore. As the series concludes in Bengaluru, Rohit aims to make a resounding impact when he partners with Jaiswal at the top of the order.
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In terms of team changes, Jitesh Sharma, the current wicketkeeper-batter, may make way for Sanju Samson, given India’s unassailable 2-0 lead. In the bowling department, there’s a possibility of Kuldeep Yadav replacing Washington Sundar, who has struggled in the last two encounters. Despite being on the bench, the Tamil Nadu all-rounder has yet to find success with the ball. Mukesh Kumar too can make way for Avesh Khan, considering the Bengal pacer is also in the test squad for the upcoming series against England.
It will be interesting if Yashasvi Jaiswal retains his place in the side after a brilliant 68 runs off 34 balls. With Shubman Gill rested for the second T20I, the left hander made full use of the opportunity. Jaiswal has a staggering strike rate of almost 160 in the shorter format. As far as the middle order is concerned, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube and Jitesh or Samson will play.
The series began with India clinching a six-wicket victory in Mohali, followed by a successful run-chase in Indore with as 4 wickets in hand. Shivam Dube, a standout performer in both matches, remains a key player in Bengaluru, known for its favorable conditions for batsmen.
Here is the likely playing XI for India: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shivam Dube, Sanju Samson (wk), Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar.
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