MS Dhoni is set to be rested for the last two ODIs against Australia, confirmed Sanjay Bangar, India’s batting coach on Friday (March 8).
Rishabh Pant is the other wicketkeeper in the squad and is set to replace Dhoni in the XI as India look to fine-tune their squad before the World Cup.
India will also have a keen eye on Mohammed Shami, who suffered a minor injury during the third ODI in Ranchi. Shami was hit on his leg by a straight drive and was forced off the field for a while. However, he returned soon after to complete his full quota of overs. Shami’s fitness is set to be assessed later, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar in line to replace him if needed.
“Shami also had a hit on the leg. We have to see whether he’ll be fit for the game. If he’s not fit then Bhuvneshwar Kumar will play. Those decisions the captain and coach take it before the game,” said Bangar.
Virat Kohli, speaking in the post-match presentation, stressed that their mindset of winning games will not change despite the changes with an eye on the World Cup. The series currently stands 2-1 in India’s favour with two more games to be played in Mohali and Delhi.
“We will have a few changes in the next couple of games. We have to figure out what those changes are. But the idea is to go out there and win matches and take a lot of pride in winning games for the country. That mindset will not change. We will have a few new faces and they will have to make the most of their chances because there is a World Cup coming and everyone wants to be on that flight,” said Kohli.
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