Naman Dhir Predicts 290-300 Run Target as Mullanpur Hosts Maiden ODI

India will face West Indies in the third ODI at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur on October 3, 2026. Having already secured an unassailable 2-0 lead, India is set to wrap up the series, turning the final match into a dead-rubber contest. This encounter marks a historic milestone for the venue, which is set to host its very first One Day International.

Naman Dhir, the right-arm spin-bowling all-rounder, received his maiden ODI call-up for the series against West Indies. In the opening match, he bowled a wicketless spell of 5 overs, conceding 33 runs. In the second ODI, he produced figures of 6.1 overs for 38 runs. Having not been utilized with the bat so far, Dhir shared his expectations regarding a competitive score at his home ground ahead of the third ODI.

“I will keep it simple. I will think that I have extra pressure and responsibility to do well here. I will do what I have been doing. I haven’t seen the wicket yet, and we can’t assess and prepare accordingly. If it’s prepared as per what I know, it will be a good total of 290-300,” Dhir said in the pre-match press conference.

The debutant explained that the team did not train on the penultimate day, meaning he has yet to inspect the pitch firsthand. His prediction is based on his familiarity with how the new venue typically prepares its surfaces for international cricket. The pitch is expected to favor batters in its inaugural ODI, though it may show signs of fatigue after 20 to 25 overs of play.

Dhir expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to represent India at his home ground, a venue where he has gained substantial experience over the years. He reflected on the unexpected nature of his national call-up and the special significance of playing in a familiar environment.

“I had no idea that I would be picked in the Indian team and would play a match at my home ground. I have played a lot here and know it well. After the Sher-e-Punjab tournament, I had no idea about getting a call-up to the Indian team. It is a great feeling full of gratitude, and I always want to give my best,” Dhir said.

If given the chance to bat, Dhir emphasized a flexible approach rather than sticking to a rigid, pre-determined strategy. His batting plan will be dictated entirely by the match situation and the specific requirements of the team.

“The plan is simple – I will not go in with a fixed plan if I get a chance to bat. It depends on the situation and the demand of the team. So, as per that, I will plan my batting innings in the game,” Dhir said.

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