#IndiaInAustralia: Third ODI- Preview, key players and TV listing
What's the story
Team India will be taking on Australia in the third ODI at the MCG on January 18. The series is tied at 1-1 and both teams will be looking to give it all tomorrow and clinch the three-match series. After losing the first ODI, India won the second match at the Adelaide Oval. Here is the detailed match preview, key battles and TV listing.
India's bowling
India need to sort out their third pace option
In both the matches, India gave away plenty of runs in the final 60 deliveries. This is one area skipper Virat Kohli will be looking to address on Friday. It remains to be seen whether the side picks Mohammed Siraj, who was expensive in the last ODI. Khaleel Ahmed may get a look in once again. All-rounder Vijay Shankar is another option as well.
Rayudu
Focus on Ambati Rayudu in the middle order
Ambati Rayudu failed to deliver in both the ODI matches so far. With Rayudu being entrusted for the number four batting position, the focus will be on him to deliver this time around. India have 11 more ODIs to play before the ICC World Cup 2019, and they want Rayudu to be among the runs. The rest of the batting looks settled.
Australia starting XI
Australia make two changes for the series decider
Australia have dropped spinner Nathan Lyon to the bench and Adam Zampa will take his place. The other change was a forced one. Pacer Jason Behrendorff, who has been rather impressive up till now, has a sore back and will miss the game. He is set to be replaced by Billy Stanlake, who was a part of the 13-man squad.
Finch
Australia concerned about Aaron Finch's form
Australia will be hoping that skipper Aaron Finch gets going. He has been in dismal form with the bat and was bowled out by Bhuvi in both the matches. A strong start will take the pressure away from the middle order batsmen, who have come good. Leg-spinner Zampa will need to apply the brakes on the Indian batsmen. It's a massive chance for him.
Data
Stat attack: Australia have a better record at the MCG
India have never won a bilateral ODI series in Australia and a victory could help Kohli script history. The two sides have met on 14 occasions at the MCG and India have won five ODIs. India have won only 12 ODIs against Australia in Australia.
Key players
Australia vs India, third ODI: Key players in focus
Shaun Marsh has been terrific for Australia and can be a match-winner. After scoring a fifty in the first match, the southpaw notched 131 in Adelaide. Glenn Maxwell has been decisive with the finishing touches. Jhye Richardson has given a good account of himself. For India, veteran MS Dhoni has hit some form and is pivotal. Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been impressive with the ball.
Information
When and where to watch the third ODI?
The third ODI will start on Friday at 7:50 AM IST. The match will be telecast live on the Sony Ten Network in both English and Hindi commentary. The match can be streamed live on the Sony Liv app as well.