With a 2-0 lead in the bag, Shubman Gill’s side will aim to complete a clean sweep while also continuing to assess the depth of their squad ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Team India focused on experimentation
India entered the series with the clear objective of assessing the strength of their bench, and that process is expected to continue in Chennai. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed that changes will be made to the playing 11 for the dead rubber.
The series has already brought several positives. Ishan Kishan made the most of his opportunity, culminating in a scintillating century in Lucknow while batting at No.4. Captain Shubman Gill continued his rich run of form, smashing a magnificent 154 in the second ODI and proved equally effective at No.3 in Virat Kohli’s absence.
Young pacer Gurnoor Brar has also impressed with his pace, bounce and ability to hit tricky lengths, attributes that could prove valuable in South African conditions during the 2027 World Cup.
India are expected to give further opportunities to Yashasvi Jaiswal, who is being assessed as a left-handed opener and a potential back-up to Rohit Sharma. Nitish Kumar Reddy, now fully fit after recovering from thigh inflammation, remains in the limelight as India look for a comprehensive solution in Hardik Pandya’s absence. Prince Yadav and Harsh Dubey are also likely to remain in contention as the team continues to evaluate its next generation of talent.
KL Rahul could be rested after the series win, opening the door for Kishan to continue behind the stumps. Fast bowler Harshit Rana is also back in the squad after recovering from knee surgery.
Afghanistan Eye Consolation Win
For Afghanistan, the final ODI presents an opportunity to avoid a string of cover-ups and end the tour on a positive note. The visitors were thoroughly outplayed in Lucknow, where India posted a mammoth 402 after Afghanistan opted to bowl first. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi admitted after the defeat that his side just “were not good enough” on the day.
Afghanistan’s struggles have largely stemmed from an inconsistent batting line-up and the absence of key players. Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi missed the second ODI due to a viral infection, while Azmatullah Omarzai was sidelined due to injury. If both pass their fitness tests, they are expected to return for the series finale.
The visitors will once again rely heavily on opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz and star batsman Rashid Khan, their two biggest match-winners, to challenge a confident Indian side.
Terrain and weather report
The match will be played on field no. 4 in Chepauk, a red surface that traditionally offers good bounce and carry. While Chennai has long been known for spin-friendly conditions, recent matches have produced more batting-friendly tracks. However, as the game progresses, quality spinners like Rashid Khan can still pull off grip and variable bounce.
Hot and humid weather is expected with temperatures around 35°C. Although there is a slight chance of afternoon showers, conditions are expected to remain mostly suitable for the full match.
With the series already decided, India will continue to build towards the future while Afghanistan look for pride and a much better performance in the final ODI.
