Australia vs India 2018: 3rd T20I - India's Predicted Playing XI

Australia was able to take their 1-0 lead to Sydney after persistent rain didn’t allow any result. India would have been disappointed as they would have fancied their chances of the run-chase. Meanwhile, it wasn’t to be the case and at best India can draw the three-match if they win the third and final T20I. We try and figure out India’s Predicted Playing XI against Australia.

Indian bowlers were right on the money to push Australia behind the eight-ball in the second T20I. Khaleel Ahmed and Krunal Pandya who both had taken a beating in the first T20I at the Gabba were able to make a solid comeback in Melbourne. Therefore, it was a positive for the Indian team as they had decided to back them.

However, as there was no result in the second T20I, it means India’s seven consecutive series triumphs will come to a halt. However, the Men in Blue would like to get a win under their belt before the Test series.

On the other hand, Australia will like to make a better comeback with the bat. The host’s batsmen went on to play some loose shots in the second match and had to pay the price.

Here is India’ Predicted Playing XI for the third T20I.

Rohit Sharma

India’s deputy could not hit the ground running in the first match. However, it would be great for the tourists if the flamboyant batsman gets going.

Shikhar Dhawan

The southpaw opener had scored a fine knock of 76 runs in the opener of the series. Hence, the left-hander will like to carry on in a similar fashion.

Virat Kohli

There were talks regarding the batting position of Indian skipper, Virat Kohli. In fact, most of the experts believe Kohli should bat at his signature position of number three.

KL Rahul

KL Rahul hasn’t been able to convert his starts into a substantial score. Thus, the stylish batsman will like to hit the ground running in the final T20I.

Dinesh Karthik

Dinesh Karthik had played a fine cameo of 30 runs off just 13 balls in the first T20I to keep the visitors in the game. However, Karthik could not apply the finishing touches.

Rishabh Pant

The combative southpaw batsman needs to get mature in his shot selection. Pant played an audacious shot in the first match which could have been avoided.

India will like to share series honours.

Krunal Pandya

The Indian all-rounder was able to take his revenge against Glenn Maxwell with a fine delivery. Pandya will like to bowl slow to extract help from the surface. Thus, the off-spinner is included in India’s Predicted Playing XI.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar 

Bhuvneshwar Kumar was at his best in the previous abandoned match. Kumar gave a perfect start as he was able to send back Finch on the second ball of the innings.

Kuldeep Yadav

Kuldeep Yadav was once again right on the money in the second match as he tempted the batsmen to go for the big shots. Yadav will like to continue with his good work.

Khaleel Ahmed

Khaleel Ahmed was also able to get his vengeance against Chris Lynn who had taken him apart in the first game. Thus, it was a good comeback from the rookie pacer. Hence, Khaleel is retained in India’s Predicted Playing XI.

Jasprit Bumrah 

India’s Jasprit Bumrah extracted extra bounce from the Melbourne pitch and is enjoying to bowl on true Aussie pitches. Bumrah has been in fine form, however, he would like to tighten screws on his fielding as he had bungled a catch.