The limited-overs series between India and New Zealand has been a frustrating one for fans and players. After several matches were affected by rain in T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia, one T20I and one ODI in the limited-overs series produced no result whereas the third T20I was decided by DLS as the game came to an abrupt stop. Conditions don’t seem to get better for third ODI as well as scattered showers expected in Christchurch on November 30.
DLS may come in play once again on a pitch that has perpetually favoured bowlers. As a result, both captains -- Kane Williamson and Shikhar Dhawan -- would look to field first. Under these circumstances, powerplay overs will be crucial. If the ball moves around, keeping wickets in hand will be crucial. If it doesn't, then cashing in on powerplay overs will be the task of top-order batter.
If rain does play spoilsport and the overs are reduced, changes in batting order like the first ODI are expected. Suryakumar Yadav was promoted up the order to no.3 to accelerate in the second ODI after it was reduced to 29-overs per side game. Suryakumar justified the promotion as well with a cameo that was cut-short by rain.
If it stays sunny throughout, Dhawan-led India have the chance to level the series. It will be interesting to see if the Indian team management field the same side as second ODI or make a few changes.
In the previous ODI, Sanju Samson made way for Deepak Hooda as India needed an extra bowling option after the first ODI loss. Also, Deepak Chahar replaced Shardul Thakur as the latter went for plenty against an attacking Tom Latham which changed the complexion of the game.
In addition, Kuldeep Yadav may get a chance ahead of Yuzvendra Chahal as the left-arm chinaman bowler is yet to get a game on the tour.
The final ODI of the series will also be a test for Rishabh Pant who has been on the receiving end of criticism of late over his performances in limited-overs cricket. Many former cricketers have backed Samson ahead of the southpaw as he has a better average in the ODI format.
Squads:
India: Shikhar Dhawan (captain), Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Deepak Hooda, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Deepak Chahar, Arshdeep Singh, Shardul Thakur and Umran Malik.
New Zealand: Kane Williamson (captain), Finn Allen, Devin Conway, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Tim Southee, Matt Henry, Adam Milne, Jimmy Neesham, Mitchell Santner and Lockie Ferguson
