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India’s stand-in captain Smriti Mandhana won the toss and elected to bat first in the third and final ODI of the series against Ireland at Rajkot. With the series already sealed by India after two dominant victories, the team is looking to complete a clean sweep with a 3-0 win.
Mandhana, speaking at the toss, mentioned that the team did not have a specific target in mind. "We just want to see how it goes," she said. In their previous match, India had posted a massive 370 for 5, their highest total in an ODI, showcasing their dominant batting performance.
India made two changes to their XI for the final match. Saima Thakor and Priya Mishra were rested, while Minnu Mani and Tanuja Kanwar were included in the playing XI. Despite the changes, India’s squad remains strong and determined to finish the series on a high note.
On the other hand, Ireland’s captain Gaby Lewis expressed confidence in her team’s preparations. “We have had two days off and are well rested. We would have preferred to bat first as well,” she said, indicating that Ireland was keen to put up a strong performance. However, Ireland’s lineup remained unchanged for this match, hoping to give a tough fight to India despite the previous defeats.
India’s Strong Playing XI
India’s playing XI for the final ODI featured a balanced lineup with the experience of Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Deepti Sharma, alongside the youth of Pratika Rawal and Sayali Satghare. The inclusion of Minnu Mani and Tanuja Kanwar adds depth to the squad, giving India a solid chance to dominate the match.
Ireland's Lineup
Ireland also brought a strong team to the field, with captain Gaby Lewis leading the side alongside key players like Orla Prendergast, Laura Delany, and Arlene Kelly. The team will be looking to improve on their previous performances and ensure they finish the series with a strong showing.
Looking Ahead
As the final ODI unfolds, India will look to build on their solid form and extend their unbeaten streak in the series. Ireland, though underdogs, will aim to use their rest and regrouping to challenge India’s dominance. This match promises to be an exciting conclusion to a one-sided series, with India looking to complete the 3-0 victory.
India’s Playing XI:
- Smriti Mandhana (capt)
- Pratika Rawal
- Harleen Deol
- Jemimah Rodrigues
- Tejal Hasabnis
- Richa Ghosh (wk)
- Deepti Sharma
- Minnu Mani
- Sayali Satghare
- Tanuja Kanwar
- Titas Sadhu
Ireland’s Playing XI:
- Sarah Forbes
- Gaby Lewis (capt)
- Christina Coulter Reilly (wk)
- Orla Prendergast
- Laura Delany
- Leah Paul
- Arlene Kelly
- Ava Canning
- Georgina Dempsey
- Freya Sargent
- Alana Dalzell
