The highly anticipated third and final One-Day International (ODI) between India and England is underway at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. After a thrilling contest in the previous two matches, the series stands poised for an electrifying conclusion. England’s skipper Jos Buttler won the toss and elected to field first, looking to capitalize on the early moisture and extract movement from the surface.

India, led by Rohit Sharma, enters this contest on a high, having dominated the second ODI in Cuttack courtesy of their captain’s scintillating 119-run knock. The Indian batting lineup, however, will be keenly watching Virat Kohli, who has yet to find his rhythm in this series. Kohli, who missed the first match due to injury, managed only six runs in his return, making this final ODI a crucial opportunity for him to regain form ahead of the Champions Trophy.

Kohli’s performances remain a talking point, as expectations are always sky-high whenever he takes the field. Given his historical dominance against England, fans and analysts alike anticipate a resurgence in his form. With the World Cup only months away, every innings carries weight for the star batter.

With this match being India’s last ODI before the Champions Trophy, the team management is keen on evaluating their pace attack. The absence of Jasprit Bumrah due to injury has left a void that needs to be addressed. Mohammed Shami, India’s premier fast bowler, has been consistent but might sit out the final game to manage his workload. This opens up an opportunity for Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana to step up and stake their claim in the squad.

India’s bowling attack, consisting of a mix of experience and youthful exuberance, will need to be at its sharpest against England’s aggressive batting order. Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar will handle spin duties, while Axar Patel will provide an all-round option. The team management will be keen to assess how well these bowlers perform under pressure in a high-stakes contest.

England, on the other hand, is looking to bounce back after a lackluster batting display in the second ODI. The team struggled to build partnerships, with only Joe Root showing some resistance. With aggressive players like Philip Salt, Harry Brook, and Ben Duckett in the lineup, England possesses the firepower to counterattack.

Buttler’s decision to bowl first indicates England’s strategy of restricting India to a chaseable total. The team is banking on their pace trio of Mark Wood, Gus Atkinson, and Saqib Mahmood to exploit any early movement available on the surface. Adil Rashid’s experience as a wrist-spinner will also be crucial in controlling the middle overs.

India and England share a long history of competitive cricket, with both teams boasting a formidable record against each other. In ODIs, India has maintained an upper hand in home conditions, but England’s aggressive approach under Buttler’s captaincy makes them a formidable opponent.

The ongoing series has already seen contrasting performances—India’s dominance in the second ODI and England’s resilience in the first. The final game will not only determine the series winner but also set the tone for both teams heading into the Champions Trophy.

Kohli’s struggle in the second ODI has only increased the curiosity around his performance in this match. The former captain thrives under pressure, and a strong innings here will silence his critics while providing a confidence boost ahead of major tournaments.

Gill has been in fine form and will look to provide a strong start alongside Rohit Sharma. His ability to rotate strike and accelerate when needed makes him a key figure in India’s top order.

The English captain’s ability to change the game in a matter of overs makes him one of the most dangerous players in white-ball cricket. If Buttler finds his rhythm, England can pose a serious challenge.

Known for his express pace, Wood will be crucial in dismantling India’s top order. His ability to generate bounce and movement at high speeds could prove to be a game-changer.

The Narendra Modi Stadium pitch has historically been a balanced surface, offering something for both batters and bowlers. Early on, fast bowlers can expect movement under lights, but as the game progresses, the pitch tends to settle, making batting easier. Spinners might come into play during the middle overs as the surface begins to wear down.

With the match being played in the evening, dew could play a factor in the second innings, making bowling difficult for the team defending a total. Teams have generally preferred chasing under lights, which might explain England’s decision to bowl first.

• Strong start: With Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill opening, India will aim for a solid foundation.
• Middle-order stability: KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, and Hardik Pandya need to ensure there is no collapse.
• Spin attack in middle overs: Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar will be key in controlling England’s aggressive batters.
• Death bowling execution: Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya will need to be precise in the final overs.

• Utilizing early movement: Wood and Atkinson will look to strike in the powerplay.
• Counterattack in the middle overs: Joe Root and Harry Brook’s role will be crucial in stabilizing the innings.
• Explosive finish: Buttler and Livingstone are expected to launch an aggressive finish if wickets are in hand.

With the series tied at 1-1, this final ODI is a winner-takes-all contest. A victory for India would reaffirm their dominance at home and provide momentum heading into the Champions Trophy. For England, a win would be a major confidence booster, proving that they can compete and win in subcontinental conditions.

As the players take the field, the atmosphere in Ahmedabad is electric, with fans eager to witness a high-intensity battle. With two world-class teams colliding, this match promises to be an unforgettable encounter.

Stay tuned for live updates as the action unfolds at the Narendra Modi Stadium.