In the third One-Day International, which played late on Tuesday, India defeated West Indies by an incredible 200 runs, winning the match and the series 2-1. In addition to showcasing a number of players’ extraordinary talents, the match brought up important issues regarding India’s team composition in advance of the next Asia Cup and the eagerly awaited World Cup on home soil.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the captains, again chose to forgo the game in order to give World Cup prospects plenty of opportunities. Despite a resounding outcome, India still seems to be far from striking the right balance.
In the third ODI, Shubman Gill, who had been somewhat reserved during the Caribbean tour, finally found his rhythm, scoring a strong 85 from 92 balls. His brilliant 143-run opening stand with the in-form Ishan Kishan (77 off 64 balls) laid the foundation for India’s mammoth 351 for 5 total after being asked to bat.
The middle-order also made compelling arguments for its inclusion, even as the top-order demonstrated their superiority. Sanju Samson’s calm 51 off 41-ball inning demonstrated his skill as a backup middle-order hitter. His innings featured four thunderous sixes, three of which were off the leg-spin of Yannic Cariah, showcasing his mastery of beautiful inside-out smashes.
However, as has always been Samson’s curse, he failed to turn his promising start into a sizable score. In order for the talented wicketkeeper-batsman to win the No. 4 spot if Shreyas Iyer’s fitness issues continue leading up to the World Cup, consistency will continue to be crucial.
Another bright potential for the middle of the order, Suryakumar Yadav, demonstrated his natural talent throughout his knock of 35. His typical pick-up shot for a six behind square and a sliced six off Jayden Seals provided a hint as to his seamless ability to switch gears. He, too, failed to take advantage of the chance to make a good impression, though.
Hardik Pandya, the captain, took the initiative and stamped his dominance with a stunning show of power striking. Fans were amazed by his beautiful off-drive and soaring straight six off Cariah. The pair put together a significant partnership for the fifth wicket of 65 runs in 8.1 overs with the help of Suryakumar. Pandya’s innings of 70 not out off 52 balls demonstrated his undeniable potential, but in order to keep his spot in the starting XI, he must continue to put in such efforts.
Early in the innings, Mukesh Kumar’s brilliant three-wicket burst during the first Powerplay broke the West Indies’ chase of India’s enormous target. West Indies’ aspirations were shattered by his excellent seam bowling as they were dismissed for just 151 runs in just 35.3 overs.
Shardul Thakur (4/37 in 6.3 overs), Jaydev Unadkat (1/16 in 5 overs), and Kuldeep Yadav (2/25 in 8 overs) all joined the wicket-taking brigade and made big contributions to the lopsided match. While the bowling unit demonstrated its strength and talent, some people were puzzled by Yuzvendra Chahal’s absence from the starting XI.
There aren’t many possibilities left to finalize the roster and resolve any outstanding difficulties with the World Cup drawing near. When it comes to the bowling staff and the middle-order batting spots, the selectors and team management will have to make some difficult decisions.
It appears clear that Ravindra Jadeja would be used as the starting spinner, which leaves little opportunity for Axar Patel in the starting XI. Mukesh Kumar may also have to compete for a berth among the stand-bys despite his outstanding achievements if Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and Shardul Thakur fill the fast-bowling positions in the 15-member team.
A left-armer with variety is required for the fifth seamer’s position, and while Jaydev Unadkat has shown promise, his limits have been a source of discussion. A crucial choice will be whether the team management decides to stick with him or look into other options.
The opening batting lineup, which includes Gill and skipper Rohit, appears to be quite stable. The squad would have a difficult decision to make about Ishan Kishan’s batting position if Rahul is not healthy. It could be difficult to place Kishan at No. 4 or No. 5 in the center of the lineup given Rohit’s preference for the starting position, and it might not be fair to expect him to perform right away.
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