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The third and final Test match of the series between India and New Zealand is set to commence on November 1st at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. India, having lost the first two matches in Bengaluru and Pune, is determined to salvage some pride in this crucial encounter. Notably, India has never lost a three-match Test series at home by a 0-3 margin, and the Rohit Sharma-led team is eager to uphold this record.
In the third Test, India is considering making several changes to their playing XI. Jasprit Bumrah, a key player in India's recent Test matches, might be rested as part of workload management, with Mohammed Siraj likely to be brought back into the team. Siraj was rested for the second Test in Pune but is expected to return for the Mumbai fixture.
Another potential change involves the inclusion of all-rounder Axar Patel. His impressive all-round performance for India D in the Duleep Trophy 2024 match against India C in Anantapur last month has earned him a potential spot in the playing XI. Axar's inclusion could see either Ravichandran Ashwin or Ravindra Jadeja replaced, both of whom have struggled for form in the previous matches.
The Indian batters have also underperformed in the series, and the team will be looking for a strong showing in the final match. Sarfaraz Khan, despite a disappointing performance in the second Test, is expected to retain his place in the playing XI. With a strong desire to avoid a clean sweep at home, India's likely playing XI for the third Test is anticipated to be: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Akash Deep, and Mohammed Siraj.
Source: Bumrah & Ashwin Out; Axar In? India's Likely Playing XI For 3rd Test Against New Zealand