The Indian team management has made key changes to their playing XI for IND vs SL 3rd ODI. KL Rahul, who has been a consistent performer for India in the 50-over format since last year's ODI World Cup, has been dropped from the XI for the series finale.
IND vs SL ODI series marks Rahul's return to India's 50-over setup after the South Africa tour. The likely reason for benching KL Rahul could be his underwhelming form in the ongoing series.
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So far in IND vs SL ODI series, Rahul has contributed a total of 31 runs across the two ODIs, including a duck in the last match. Star wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant has been selected as his replacement.
The battle between Pant and Rahul for the wicket-keeper's slot in India playing XI will continue across formats. With the Champions Trophy coming up next year and many home matches scheduled for India, it will be interesting to see who secures a permanent spot in the XI.
In another major change, Arshdeep Singh was dropped for spin all-rounder Riyan Parag to make his India debut.
"Plenty to play for, we've been challenged in the last two matches. It's clear as to what we need to do with the bat and ball. We've addressed it - what we need to do as a group. You got to give credit to the opposition, they played well and understood the position well. Another opportunity for us to correct. Two changes. We have Rishabh and Riyan Parag in place of KL and Arshdeep," Rohit Sharma said at the toss.
Playing 11s for IND vs SL 3rd ODI
India Playing 11: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Riyan Parag, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj.
Sri Lanka Playing 11: Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando.