IND vs SA: Gautam Gambhir Suggests 3 Changes In The Dead Rubber Against South Africa

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir recommended KL Rahul and co. to make three changes in the third and final ODI against South Africa which is a dead rubber after the hosts won the first two ODIs in Paarl.

Since these tours are considered to be a preparation for the 2023 ODI World Cup, Gambhir reckoned it’s time to rest first-team players and give the other budding prospects an opportunity.

“Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Ravi Ashwin should be rested for the next match, and changes in the batting order aren’t needed. Jayant Yadav should be given a chance along with seamers like Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna. India need to develop their second-string team and give chances to bowlers who can bowl above 140 kmph in South Africa,” Gambhir suggested on Star Sports.

“Good chance for team management to test its second string” – Gautam Gambhir

Apart from Jasprit Bumrah, India lacked an out-and-out fast bowler who can have an impact on South African pitches. Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Navdeep Saini are three express pacers who can be given a chance in the final game, as per Gambhir.

“India have three-four options in their arsenal… Navdeep Saini, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, and Mohammed Siraj. India should definitely give these players an opportunity. The third and final game can be termed as a dead rubber and it’s a good chance for the team management to test its second string,” Gambhir mentioned.

South Africa won the second ODI by 7 wickets courtesy of a stellar batting display from their opening pair of Quinton de Kock and Janneman Malan. The third ODI will be played on Sunday.

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