India heads into the final match of the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan with a commanding 2-0 lead. The series finale will take place at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, following a dominant performance in Lucknow where India secured a massive 170-run victory, powered by Shubman Gill’s brilliant century and a clinical bowling effort.
With the series already decided, the focus now shifts to strategic team selections. While India may use this opportunity to evaluate bench strength in preparation for the 2027 World Cup cycle, there is also a strong possibility they will field a powerhouse lineup to complete a clean 3-0 sweep. Meanwhile, Afghanistan will be fighting to find a winning combination and claim a consolation victory against the hosts.
Team News
India
Following medical clearance from the BCCI, Rohit Sharma is slated to return to the opening slot, where he will partner with the aggressive Yashasvi Jaiswal. The middle order remains formidable, led by captain Shubman Gill, who is coming off a stellar 154-run performance. The management may also introduce Harshit Rana and Gurnoor Brar to the bowling attack to test their capabilities.
Afghanistan
Having struggled to stop India’s scoring momentum in the first two ODIs, Afghanistan is likely to lean on a spin-heavy strategy to suit the slow, turning conditions typical of the Chepauk surface. The inclusion of veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi adds vital experience to the middle order, while Rashid Khan and AM Ghazanfar will be tasked with controlling the run rate during the middle phase of the innings.
Predicted Playing XIs
India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (C), Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul (WK), Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Gurnoor Brar, Prince Yadav.
Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (C), Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, AM Ghazanfar, Zia Ur Rahman Sharif, Mohammad Saleem Safi
