3 things to look forward to in the 3rd India vs Sri Lanka ODI ft. Riyan Parag's ODI debut
It's now or never for India as they look to avoid their first ODI series defeat to Sri Lanka in 27 years. The third ODI, to be played at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, is all set to commence on Wednesday, August 7.
The Men in Blue have lost another toss and will need to chase under the lights once again. Rohit Sharma announced two changes at the toss, with Riyan Parag and Rishabh Pant coming in for KL Rahul and Arshdeep Singh.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will want to capitalize on their winning advantage and pull off a memorable series victory. Charith Asalanka stated at the toss that Maheesh Theekshana will replace Akila Dananjaya in the XI.
It's been an enthralling series so far, and that isn't expected to change on Wednesday. Everything is on the line for both teams as they look to build towards the next ICC 50-over cycle.
On that note, here are three things to look forward to in the third ODI between India and Sri Lanka.
#3 Can India's old guard step up with the series on the line?
India's more experienced middle-order batters haven't been at their best in the series thus far. Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer have looked unconvincing, while KL Rahul has been dropped despite being an integral part of the setup over the last few years.
In the final ODI, Kohli and Shreyas will need to step up and counter the Sri Lankan spinners, who have been relentlessly accurate. The former Indian skipper will need to essay one of his trademark knocks in tricky run-chases, while Shreyas will need to bring the fighter inside him to the fore once again.
Can they do it? It'll be interesting to watch, with India's middle order wearing a new look after the additions of Parag and Pant.
#2 Sri Lanka's spinners will be licking their lips at the prospect of bowling in the 3rd ODI
At the pitch report, Russell Arnold admitted that the spinners are going to get the ball to bite and turn once again. While it is a fresh pitch, that doesn't mean much in Colombo, where the square has a few defining characteristics that don't change across it.
Sri Lanka have Jeffrey Vandersay, Dunith Wellalage, and Charith Asalanka to partner Theekshana, who has been added to the XI. The quartet is more than capable of dismantling the Indian batting unit, as the first two matches of the series have proved.
The spinners will love bowling in Colombo, and their involvement could produce another low-scoring thriller. And the ebbs and flows are always something to look forward to.
#1 Riyan Parag will make his ODI debut
India handed out a cap ahead of the third ODI, with Parag making his debut at the expense of a fast bowler. The Men in Blue's intentions behind the move are clear - 30 overs of spin from Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav just aren't enough on this track.
Parag boasts an excellent List A record and has made an impressive start to his international career. His bowling variations and high ceiling have been evident, and his ideal batting tempo will perfectly suit the 50-over format.
Parag will also get the opportunity to play alongside his idol, Virat Kohli, on the international stage. His debut will be one of the most interesting storylines surrounding the final ODI against Sri Lanka.