Zaheer Khan and Michael Vaughan predict India’s playing XI for the third ODI

The three-match ODI series between India and England is heading towards a thrilling finish. The series is currently level at 1-1 and the two teams will be playing the series decider on Sunday. 

The first One Day International saw India deliver an all-round performance and pick up a comprehensive win by ten wickets. In the second match, England outplayed the visitors as they thrashed India by 100 runs. 

In the third game at Emirates Old Trafford, both sides are expected to field their strongest XI. Former cricketers Zaheer Khan and Michael Vaughan were recently involved in an interactive session where they opined on the changes the Men in Blue could make.

Zaheer Khan backs Arshdeep Singh to play the third ODI

Khan is of the view that India have a balanced side at their disposal with Hardik Pandya essaying the role of an extra bowler and making drastic changes could affect the balance of the team.

However, the 43-year-old backed Arshdeep Singh to secure a place in the playing XI instead of Prasidh Krishna. Zaheer believes that the young Indian seamer can make use of the swing conditions and trouble the opposition batters. 

“From India’s side, I don’t expect many changes. They have been playing two spinners, Hardik Pandya bowling, so they have got their balance sorted. They might debate around Arshdeep Singh or maybe Prasidh Krishna making way for him. 

“If we have to make use of the swing. So, that’s the only change I am expecting. Other than that, I am not expecting any changes," Zaheer Khan said as quoted by Cricbuzz.

Michael Vaughan has his say on India’s playing XI

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has contrasting views on India’s playing XI. The veteran believes that Old Trafford doesn’t offer significant swing so there is no point in making changes to the playing XI.

Prasidh Krishna has done a decent job in the series so far. He has registered an economy of less than 6.7 in both games while picking up two wickets. 

“Old Trafford is not that place where it swings. I don’t know what’s the science behind it, but you wouldn’t have Old Trafford as that venue where it swings conventionally. 

“You have to hit the pitch hard. I don’t think India will make many changes. At this stage, where you have series on the line, I won’t be surprised if they go in with the same team,” Vaughan concluded. 

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