India suffered a shocking defeat at the hands of Sri Lanka earlier tonight at the R Premadasa Stadium. Playing in the second ODI of the three-match series, the 2023 World Cup runners-up failed to chase down a 241-run target against a depleted Sri Lankan bowling lineup.
It is pertinent to note that India crushed this Sri Lankan team in Asia Cup 2023 Final and World Cup group stage match last year. However, the tables have turned as Sri Lanka are undefeated in the series after the first two matches.
India cannot win this series now. They can draw the series with a victory in the third ODI on Wednesday. Before that match starts, here’s a look at two changes which India might make.
1. India must bring Rishabh Pant in for KL Rahul in 3rd ODI against Sri Lanka
KL Rahul played some fine knocks in the 2023 ODI World Cup, but his slow knock in the final hurt the Men in Blue a lot. Some fans opined that India should have looked beyond Rahul after that World Cup. However, the team management continues to stick with him.
With an aggressive wicketkeeper batter like Rishabh Pant present in the squad, it will be great if Rahul gets rested for the third ODI. Pant deserves a chance to showcase his talent as well.
2. Riyan Parag in for Shivam Dube
Shivam Dube played a major role in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 triumph. However, he has struggled to get going in the ODI format. Considering how successful the spinners have been in this series, India might think about leaving Shivam Dube out for Riyan Parag.
In the domestic circuit, Parag has done well with the bat as well. Since Dube has not performed well with the bat as well, Parag should replace him.
