Delhi, 24 October (H.S.): With the three-match ODI series already lost, India will be playing for pride as they face a confident Australian side in the final match at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday. After securing the series 2-0 with a narrow two-wicket victory in Adelaide, Australia is now aiming for a historic clean sweep, a feat they have never accomplished against India in a bilateral ODI series.

India’s campaign has been marred by inconsistency and top-order failures. The team has appeared unbalanced, particularly in the absence of all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Captain Shubman Gill has had a difficult start to his leadership, scoring just 10 and 9 in the two matches.

A significant concern is the form of Virat Kohli, who, for the first time in his illustrious ODI career, has recorded consecutive ducks. Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has been a constant threat, dismantling the Indian top order in both games.In contrast, Australia’s confidence is soaring, buoyed by the impressive contributions from their new-look squad.

Players like Matt Short, Cooper Connolly, and Matthew Renshaw have stepped up effectively to fill the void left by the ODI retirements of Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell. Renshaw, in particular, played a crucial role in the Adelaide victory with a vital 30-run knock and a key partnership.Both teams are expected to make changes for the final encounter.

India may look to bolster its lineup by including opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and spinner Kuldeep Yadav, while pacer Prasidh Krishna could also get an opportunity. Australia, with the series secured, might opt to rest key fast bowlers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, potentially giving opportunities to Nathan Ellis and Jack Edwards.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar