We’re heading into a nail-biting third and final ODI between India and Sri Lanka, with the series all square at 1-1.
Rohit Sharma dazzled the crowd in Mohali with a spectacular double-century, making sure Sunday isn’t just another ordinary match but a thrilling decider. The hosts are poised for yet another ODI series win in 2017.
After a crushing victory in the first ODI, Sri Lanka bounced back with a heavy win in the second, resetting the stage for a gripping finale.
India v Sri Lanka | Sunday 17 December | Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Stadium | 10:00
Match Winner Odds
India 21/100 | Tie 35/1 | Sri Lanka 7/2
India
Sharma’s commanding performance in Chandigarh reinstated the dominance India lost in Dharamsala. It’s expected the momentum will carry India through to Visakhapatnam, a ground where they’ve only suffered one ODI loss in six matches.
India’s bold move to include 18-year-old spinner Washington Sundar underlines their faith in fresh talent and bench strength, and he’s likely to retain his spot over Yuzvendra Chahal.
Dinesh Karthik and Manish Pandey have yet to be tested this series but will need to deliver if the top order stumbles. Like with veteran Mahendra Singh Dhoni, India might consider promoting either player to number four to steady the innings.
Hardik Pandya’s role with the new ball, possibly ahead of Jasprit Bumrah, could continue. Despite questions around his seam bowling, using him early seems a strong strategic call.
Conditions at the venue should be fairly standard, with the toss winner likely to bat first on a pitch expected to speed up as the match goes on. High heat and humidity are forecast, with no rain interruptions predicted.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has seen dramatic swings – from reducing India to 29 for seven, to then conceding nearly 400 runs.
Interim head coach Nic Pothas, approaching the end of his tenure, believes the team is slowly finding the right mix, but progress remains frustratingly slow for fans.
Besides Angelo Mathews reaching a century, the team has struggled to convert promising starts into big scores in the second ODI. Lahiru Thirimanne, facing form challenges, must step up considerably.
Suranga Lakmal will be under pressure. After shining in the first match but struggling badly in the second, he needs a strong comeback to secure his place amid competition.
Visakhapatnam hasn’t seen an ODI from Sri Lanka in a decade. While they lost last time, the West Indies’ upset win here four years ago offers hope. Sri Lanka are clear underdogs but can surprise yet again.
Final Verdict: India 21/100
India has seized the momentum following Sri Lanka’s collapse in Mohali and appear set for a convincing series win, though a clean sweep is unlikely.
