On 'highway pitch', Washington Sundar gives more headache to Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid

India are currently playing the third ODI of their three-match series against Australia in Rajkot on Wednesday. Australian skipper Pat Cummins won the toss and elected to bat first at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium. Batting first, Australia got off to a flying start as they notched up a 78-run partnership thanks to David Warner and Mitchell Marsh. Both players scored a half-century each before being dismissed. Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne also contributed to run-fest with a fifty each.  

3 things you need to know

• India are playing the third ODI of their three-match series against Australia
• India are currently 2-0 ahead in the series having won the first two games
• India will be looking to win the match in order to hand Australia a clean sweep

Also Read: 'They Are The Best Team': Former Pakistan Cricketer Backs Team India To Win World Cup 2023

Sundar gives more headache to Rohit & Dravid

Australia eventually concluded their innings at 352/7 after 50 overs. The Indian bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, struggled to secure an early breakthrough and also conceded a significant number of runs in their initial spells. However, Washington Sundar stood out among the Indian bowlers, despite not taking a single wicket, as he maintained tight control in the middle overs. In his allocated 10 overs, Sundar leaked only 48 runs.

Sundar's impressive bowling performance has created a selection dilemma for captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid. Another player has now emerged as a strong contender for inclusion in the ODI World Cup squad. Ashwin was already in contention after his outstanding performances in the last two ODIs against Australia. With his exceptional showing on the 'highway pitch' in Rajkot, Sundar has joined the queue as well, giving more headaches to Rohit and Dravid.

Also Read: Australia Cricket Team: Strength And Weakness Of Pat Cummins And Co. For ODI World Cup

Washington Sundar opens for India

In a surprise move. Sundar has been asked to open the batting for India alongside Rohit Sharma. This comes in the absence of Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan, both left-handers. Sundar has been given a chance to play the opener's role as he is also a left-hander. Rohit provided a solid start to India in the second innings as he scored a quickfire half-century. India are attempting to chase down a 353-run target. 

Image: JioCinema