Arshdeep to Be Rested? Nitish Reddy Returns! India Coach Hints at Big Changes for 3rd ODI

Team India is preparing to shuffle its lineup for the third ODI against the Afghanistan national cricket team, and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has dropped strong hints about the changes.

India, leading 2-0, will take the field at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium aiming for a clean sweep—but also with an eye on experimentation ahead of upcoming international assignments.

Nitish Reddy Set for Comeback

One of the biggest takeaways from the pre-match press conference is the likely return of Nitish Kumar Reddy. The young all-rounder missed the previous match due to soreness in his left thigh but is now fully fit.

“Nitish… he could have played the last game as well, but he will be good to go for tomorrow,” ten Doeschate confirmed.

His inclusion could provide India with added balance, especially with the team continuing to search for a reliable pace-bowling all-rounder.

Arshdeep Singh Likely to Be Rested

In a move aimed at workload management, Arshdeep Singh might be given a break for the final ODI.

“We will be making a few changes… Arshdeep may take rest,” the coach revealed.

With a packed international calendar ahead, resting key bowlers in a dead rubber appears to be a strategic decision rather than a performance-based call.

Batting Shake-Up on the Cards

The batting lineup could also see at least one change, especially with intense competition for spots.

Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal finds himself under pressure after a disappointing outing in Lucknow, where he was dismissed for just four runs.

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Despite his earlier unbeaten century against South Africa, Jaiswal faces stiff competition from Ishan Kishan, who strengthened his case with a brilliant hundred in the previous match.

Adding to the challenge, Virat Kohli is expected to return soon, reclaiming the No. 3 spot. This would push Shubman Gill back to his opening role alongside Rohit Sharma, leaving very limited room in the XI.

“He Has to Score Runs…” – Clear Message to Jaiswal

Ten Doeschate made it clear that opportunities in Indian cricket are rare and must be seized.

“Jaiswal does get a few chances… but when he gets them, he has to score runs. That is just the nature of Indian cricket,” he stated.

The message is simple—performance is the only currency in a team stacked with talent.

India Eye Clean Sweep Before UK Tour

India have already dominated the series, winning the rain-affected first ODI and then registering a commanding 171-run victory in Lucknow.

Now, the focus shifts to completing a 3-0 whitewash before the team heads to the United Kingdom for upcoming assignments against Ireland and England.

With squad rotation, player form, and future planning all in play, this ‘dead rubber’ may turn out to be one of the most crucial matches for India’s bench strength.