IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to open in third ODI, Ishan Kishan rested due to sickness

The third and final ODI encounter between India and Australia gets underway ahead of the highly anticipated ODI World Cup 2023, the stakes are high as they aim to fine-tune their preparations. While a few warm-up games still lie ahead on the itinerary, this particular clash serves as a pivotal moment to ensure that all facets of their game are honed to perfection. 

India, a team with a formidable lineup, seems to be nearing a state of equilibrium. Yet, as the dust settles, a couple of lingering questions cast a shadow of uncertainty over the final composition of their squad. The return of India's seasoned stalwarts adds a layer of experience to the mix, as they endeavour to piece together an XI that closely mirrors their World Cup aspirations.

However, the Indian camp was dealt an early blow with the news that the explosive young talent, Ishan Kishan, has fallen victim to a bout of viral fever, as a result, sidelining him for this crucial encounter. Filling his shoes is none other than Washington Sundar, who steps in for the star performer of the previous game, Ravichandran Ashwin.

As the team strategizes for this encounter, Rohit Sharma, along with Kuldeep Yadav and skipper Virat Kohli, has made himself available for the match. While the elegant Shubman Gill remains unavailable, Rohit will partner with Virat Kohli at the top of the order, in the absence of Kishan, who had been earmarked as the second-choice opener. One of the noteworthy changes in the squad sees Shardul Thakur making way for the promising pacer from Karnataka, Prasidh Krishna. This marks a significant moment in Krishna's career as he prepares to don the Indian jersey for the very first time in a One Day International.

A zest of being with Team India for young talents from the local state

In a gesture of camaraderie and unity, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the inclusion of four local state players in the form of Dharmendra Jadeja, Prerak Mankad, Vishwaraj Jadeja, and Harvik Desai, respectively. Notably, these players will provide invaluable support to the team, particularly in the roles of fielding and refreshment duty in the final ODI of the series. This move comes as several regular squad members have been granted a brief respite before the marquee event takes centre stage.