IRE vs IND 3rd T20I: 3 changes India can make in the dead rubber

IRE vs IND 3rd T20I provides India an opportunity to test their bench strength and strategize for future.

As the high-flying Indian cricket team gears up for IRE vs IND 3rd T20I in Dublin on August 22, the contest has an air of anticipation surrounding it, even though the series has already been clinched by India with a 2-0 lead. The final match not only offers a chance for India to complete a clean sweep but also provides an opportunity to test their bench strength and strategize for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023. Here are three potential changes that India could consider in the dead rubber:

1. Avesh Khan for Arshdeep Singh

Avesh Khan can get a game, replacing Arshdeep Singh in India’s Playing XI for the third T20. Jasprit Bumrah’s remarkable comeback from an 11-month injury hiatus has been one of the standout stories of India’s campaign in Ireland. However, given Bumrah’s recent return and the desire to further build his match fitness, he might be retained in the playing XI to gather more crucial overs under his belt. Prasidh Krishna, another pivotal figure who recently returned from an injury layoff, could also be retained to ensure he gets valuable game time ahead of the Asia Cup.

2. Jitesh Sharma for Tilak Varma

While India’s batting has been impressive in the series so far, there might be a chance to experiment with the lineup in the dead rubber. Jitesh Sharma is a talented wicketkeeper-batter who has shown promise in the last two IPL seasons, and can get a go here.

3. Shahbaz Ahmed for Washington Sundar

Washington Sundar has not been used in these conditions and the management might contemplate introducing new faces to the playing XI. Shahbaz Ahmed can get featured in the dead rubber ahead of Washington Sundar.

While India’s primary objective remains to seal a 3-0 series sweep against Ireland, the dead rubber offers an excellent opportunity to assess various aspects of their squad. These potential changes could not only provide valuable experience to newer players but also help the management fine-tune their strategies.

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