The two matches in the one-day series have not been devoid of the twists and turns associated with the limited overs game. A one-wicket win in the first match was followed by a last-ball finish with only one wicket remaining in the second.
Bangladesh’s series victory may have reduced the final game to a dead rubber but India will not miss the opportunity to experiment on their batting order with the World Cup less than a year away.
India will be without their regular captain Rohit Sharma, who has returned home to seek medical advice on his thumb. Kuldeep Sen and Deepak Chahar are also unavailable for Saturday’s ODI while Kuldeep Yadav has been added to the squad.
While Mirpur’s wicket always has something in it for the bowlers, Chittagong has helped the batters. Expect tall scores from both teams on Saturday. It will be a test of India’ resource depth without firstchoice reserves like Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson.
One bright spot has been Shreyas Iyer’s form in the 50- over version. He may have issues with the short ball overseas but in subcontinent conditions he has been consistent recording six half-centuries and a career-best 113 not out at a strike rate of 92.63 in his last 11 innings.
Iyer will perhaps have to compete with Surya, Samson and Deepak Hooda for a slot in the middle order. If he continues to be consistent, there’s no reason why he cannot seal the No.4/5 position in the World Cup.
In the clamour for all-rounders, Washington Sundar has also emerged as an utility player. Washington has also played a few blinders, the most recent coming in the tour of New Zealand. “That’s the role I have been getting in the last few years or so. That’s what that particular position demands, and I have working quite specifically that way.
“Whatever the positions demand me to do, I have been practising that way. I have been working in those specific manners,” Washington said on the eve of the third ODI against Bangladesh.
Washington is happy that his hard work is reaping dividends. “I am glad that all the hard work has been coming good in the last few months or so. Hopefully, I will continue to do really well in the coming months and years as well.”
The all-rounder, who has picked up five wickets in the two matches of the series, is looking to be the player for all situations and positions.
Easwaran for Tests
Bengal captain Abhimanyu Easwaran has been told to join the Test squad in Chittagong for the two-match series, starting December 14.
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