Chennai: Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has urged the team management, led by captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir, to make bold selection calls in the third and final ODI against Afghanistan.
With India already sealing the three-match series, the final game presents an opportunity to test bench strength and give chances to players who have had limited game time.
Chopra backs Jaiswal, Reddy inclusion
While picking his preferred playing XI, Chopra suggested that Yashasvi Jaiswal should be retained in the side, having featured in only one match so far in the series.
“Yashasvi has played only one match, so let him play. Don’t drop him because you don’t know when he will get another opportunity,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.
He also recommended including Nitish Kumar Reddy in place of Arshdeep Singh, provided the all-rounder is fit.
“Bite the bullet and say we want to play Nitish Kumar Reddy. In that case, Arshdeep Singh should sit out,” he added.
Harshit Rana unlikely to feature
Fast bowler Harshit Rana, who recently returned to the squad after recovering from injury, is unlikely to play the final ODI despite being declared fit.
India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed that Rana has completed his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy and has been cleared to rejoin the squad.
“He has put in a lot of work at the NCA and has got clearance. He looks fully fit and in good spirits,” said Doeschate.
However, the team management is expected to take a cautious approach regarding his return to match action.
Focus on long-term workload
Doeschate emphasized that the priority is to ensure Rana is physically prepared for a demanding schedule in the coming weeks rather than rushing him back into competitive cricket.
“There is a big workload coming up over the next five to six weeks. The focus is to make sure he is completely ready physically, and the mental side will follow,” he explained.
The third ODI, set to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, will offer India a chance to experiment with combinations while maintaining their winning momentum.
Opportunity to test bench strength
With the series already in the bag, India may look to rotate players and provide opportunities to emerging talents.
The match could serve as a platform for players like Jaiswal and Reddy to stake their claim for a regular spot, while also allowing the team management to assess squad depth ahead of future assignments.
As India aim for a clean sweep, all eyes will be on the team selection and whether the management opts to make the bold calls suggested by Chopra.