India host Afghanistan in the third and final ODI at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday, with the series won and a clean sweep the only thing left to play for.
Match context
India have an unassailable 2-0 lead after clinical performances in both matches. Harshit Rana has been added to the squad and is expected to walk straight into the XI. Afghanistan have shown promising signs in patches but have been unable to convert them into results, with Shahidi’s side desperate for a consolation win.
This will be the first ODI at Chepauk since its renovation. The ground has traditionally been a bat-first venue, but the chasing side has won each of the last five matches here, suggesting a shift. Spinners are still expected to play a role, though a batting-friendly surface is anticipated for the finale.
Head-to-head
India have won five of the six previous ODI meetings, with one tied or no-result. India also won the most recent fixture between the sides on 17 June.
5.0/5
Get your R25 Extra Bet! Sign up code : AFRICAPICKS
National Responsible Gambling Program, 0800 006 008, Responsible Gambling: Know the Risks, 18+
18+ · T&Cs apply
Betting angle
India at 1.10 reflects their overwhelming dominance in this fixture, leaving little value on the outright result. Rohit Sharma at 4.20 for top batsman stands out given his recent returns and experience navigating Chepauk’s conditions.
With the surface expected to favour stroke play once batters assess the pace, over 46.5 fours at 1.90 is worth considering given both line-ups carry significant boundary-hitting depth. Arshdeep Singh at 3.35 for top bowler is the standout bowling market, given his new-ball control and India’s settled attack.
T20 vs ODI vs test betting – format-specific strategy
The takeaway
India have been utterly dominant and arrive with no incentive to ease off, especially with Rana adding fresh pace. Afghanistan have shown enough quality to compete in patches, but turning promise into a result against this India side has proven beyond them so far. A comprehensive India win to complete the sweep is the most likely outcome.
Photo: Michael Steele/Getty Images
