India are already done with the first goal of their ODI series with West Indies and everything else makes the last game in Mullanpur look a lot different. The October 3 fixture is not a must win match but one where management may be offered an insight into players who have not started the ‘11.It’s not a must-win game but one for the match management to take a look at players who have yet to play in the ‘11.
It is especially helpful as India pursue a long-term approach of creating a team for big events. A dead rubber will make it possible for the selectors to test the combinations without jeopardizing the outcome of the series, and several of the players are now in contention for a chance.
A number of players, such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, are eagerly anticipating their debut in the series. Dhruv Jurel and Anshul Kamboj are the other name to be considered, and Mohammed Siraj is the other with India rotating resources in the bowlers department.
Kamboj’s chances have increased after Prasidh Krishna was ruled out with a left hamstring injury. His addition brings India a new pace option and the management might consider a new balance in the XI with his addition.
The need to experiment has come to the fore as India has kept a lid on the series so far. Shubman Gill has been a prolific bat like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, both have churned out hundreds of runs. Their efforts have ensured the involvement of only a few middle order players.
West Indies, on the other hand, have the chance to improve on their better side in their last match. The side that has been most evident is their batting, as Shai Hope and Amir Jangoo have both taken a significant step up and the side have produced several individual hundreds in the series.
Justin Greaves will not be available after suffering a calf injury. Keacy Carty may even stay in the top of the order, and the visitors can also call in Jewel Andrew.
There is a larger selection of questions for the bowling unit. India’s batting has been a thorn in West Indies’ side on a number of occasions and it will be interesting to see if they have a different challenge if they bring in Vitel Lawes or Gudakesh Motie.
Mullanpur will also play its maiden men’s ODI, and will be a new addition to the international calendar. The afternoon conditions will be challenging, which both teams have been dealing with in the series.
India’s record of 14 straight series wins in their bilateral series against West Indies reflects the imbalance in the skills of the two teams in recent times. With the outcome all but decided, however, the final game can also be a way the home side can make other players more of a game in their selection.
It’s easier for West Indies to achieve. If they do win it, then it would be a victory to put a dent in the Indian whitewash and bring some results to the table, given their batting form which has been a highlight of their performances.
