India to Experiment with Lineup in Final ODI Against Afghanistan

In preparation for the final ODI against Afghanistan, India's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has confirmed that the team will make several changes to test different player combinations. Key players like Arshdeep Singh may be rested, while Yashasvi Jaiswal is expected to get another chance despite a previous lack of runs. Additionally, Nitish Kumar Reddy could return to the lineup. With India already leading the series 2-0, this match in Chennai will provide an opportunity for the squad to evaluate their options ahead of future competitions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 19, 2026, 21:33 IST

India's Strategy for the Final ODI

Ryan ten Doeschate, the assistant coach for India, announced that the team will implement several changes for their concluding ODI against Afghanistan. This decision is part of their strategy to explore various combinations and ensure all squad members get a chance to play. It is anticipated that fast bowler Arshdeep Singh may be rested after his strong performances in the initial matches, while the team might opt to include an extra spinner.

Ten Doeschate also mentioned that KL Rahul is not expected to bat at the No. 3 position, as the team aims to provide Yashasvi Jaiswal another opportunity despite his previous underwhelming performance. Additionally, he hinted that Nitish Kumar Reddy could return to the playing XI after missing the last match.

Focus on Jaiswal and Reddy

"We will be making a few adjustments from the first two matches. Our goal for this series was to try out different combinations and ensure everyone gets a fair chance to play," Doeschate explained to the media. "Arshdeep has performed admirably in the first two games; he might take a break tomorrow to allow one of the batters to play. One of the batters will sit out, and we will likely revert to including one of the new spinners."

"I don't foresee KL batting at three tomorrow. We want to give Yashasvi another shot. He didn't score in the last game, so I believe he will get another opportunity. We also need to reassess Nitish, who unfortunately missed the last match but deserves to start as well," he added.

India is set to face Afghanistan in the final ODI at Chennai on Saturday, already leading the series 2-0.