Tilak & Samson Dropped, Rajat Patidar In? Here's India's Probable Playing XI For 3rd ODI vs South Africa
South Africa won the second ODI convincingly [AP]
On Thursday, India will take on South Africa in the final ODI of the ongoing three-match series at Boland Park in Paarl. After securing an emphatic victory in the first match in Johannesburg, India succumbed to an eight-wicket defeat against the hosts in the subsequent encounter in Gqeberha.
Batting first, India managed a paltry 211-run total on the board, as the rampant Proteas bowling unit rattled their batting lineup. In reply, South Africa chased the target successfully, as Tony de Zorzi slammed a flamboyant hundred.
So, as India gear up for the decider in Paarl, let's analyse and find out what changes they could make to their playing XI.
India's Probable Playing XI For 3rd ODI vs South Africa
Indian opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has had a poor ODI series, registering two consecutive single-digit scores. However, he will likely retain his place as India don't have a proper third opener in their squad.
However, India might consider to bring Rajat Patidar into the XI for this game, as Tilak Varma has been completely off on the South African tour. In four innings, the stylish southpaw has managed only 40 runs at an abysmal average.
Meanwhile, Sanju Samson could retain his place in the playing XI, as he can be an asset down the order. Besides building the innings, Samson can give finishing touches to the Indian innings.
On the other hand, India might not make significant changes to their bowling unit, with Arshdeep, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar leading the attack alongside the two spinners, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav.
India's Probable Playing XI For 3rd ODI
Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sai Sudharsan, Rajat Patidar, KL Rahul (C/WK), Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar
 "Debashis Sarangi")
