IND vs ENG, 3rd ODI: Here’s why Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami and Varun Chakravarthy are not playing today’s match

England have won the toss and opted to bowl first against Rohit Sharma’s India in the third and final ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium on February 12.

Changes in Team India’s squad

This match carries extra significance as it marks India’s first ODI appearance in Ahmedabad since the ODI World Cup 2023 final, adding a historical touch to the contest. With the series already secured at 2-0, India aim to complete a clean sweep, while England seeks a consolation victory. Both teams have made tactical adjustments for this decider – England opted for a solitary change, bringing in Tom Banton in place of Jamie Overton to strengthen their batting.

Meanwhile, India made three alterations, introducing Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar and Arshdeep Singh into the lineup, while Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami and Varun Chakravarthy were given a rest. These changes set the stage for an intriguing battle as both sides look to end the series on a strong note.

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Reason behind Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami and Varun Chakravarthy absence

Despite losing the toss, India’s skipper Rohit Sharma expressed his preference for batting first in this crucial encounter. Rohit also reflected on his recent performances, emphasizing the importance of his contribution and the changes. As the series stands level, both teams will be eager to seize the momentum and secure the decisive victory in this highly anticipated showdown.

“I wanted to bat first and put runs on the board because we bowled first in the last two games. It was important for us to get a win in the last game. The fielders portrayed themselves well in the last two games, a lot of young blood. We want to continue to do well in the field. (On Harshit Rana and Varun Chakravarthy) They are pretty new in their careers so we want to keep the pressure away from them, let them do their own and they have got a lot of potential. We have made some changes – Jadeja and Shami have been rested, unfortunately Varun has a sore calf. So, Washi, Kuldeep and Arshdeep come into the side,” Rohit said.

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