India vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI Preview: Head-to-Head Record, Predicted XI and Pitch Report

India takes on Afghanistan in the third ODI at Chepauk, Chennai, aiming for a clean sweep after already clinching the series. If you want the rundown of who might play, how history stacks up, and what the pitch will do, you’re in the right place. Here’s the thing: Chennai’s pitch has flipped from a spinner's paradise to a batting-friendly strip, and that could shake up both teams' strategies.

India enters the match with momentum after winning the opening two ODIs, while Afghanistan will be desperate to finish the tour on a positive note. The final match offers both teams an opportunity to test combinations and build confidence heading into future assignments. Harshit Rana Added to India’s Squad

India vs Afghanistan Head-to-Head Record

India continues to dominate the ODI rivalry against Afghanistan. The Men in Blue remain unbeaten in ODI meetings between the two sides and have consistently used their batting depth and bowling strength to control contests.

However, Afghanistan has shown steady improvement over the years. Players such as Rashid Khan, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman have helped make matches more competitive than in previous years. While the record favors India heavily, Afghanistan continues to close the gap through experience and development.

Predicted India Playing XI

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav.

Predicted Afghanistan Playing XI

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveen-ul-Haq, Noor Ahmad.

Pitch Report: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

The Chepauk surface has evolved significantly in recent years. Traditionally known for assisting spin bowlers, the pitch has become more batting-friendly while still offering support for spinners during the middle overs.

Batters who settle early are expected to score freely, while bowlers who vary pace and lengths could find success. Teams winning the toss may prefer to bat first and place scoreboard pressure on the opposition.

Key Players to Watch

Shubman Gill remains India's standout batter after impressive performances throughout the series. His ability to control innings while maintaining scoring momentum makes him one of the biggest threats for Afghanistan.

For Afghanistan, Rashid Khan remains the key figure. Even on batting-friendly surfaces, his ability to break partnerships and control the middle overs can influence the outcome of the match.

What Could Decide the Match?

India's batting depth continues to be their biggest advantage. Even when early wickets fall, the team possesses enough quality throughout the lineup to recover and build competitive totals.

Afghanistan's chances may depend heavily on early wickets and strong performances from their spin attack. If they can slow India's scoring rate and force mistakes, they could create pressure that makes the contest far more competitive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Has India ever lost an ODI against Afghanistan?
No. India remains unbeaten against Afghanistan in ODI cricket.

Where is the 3rd ODI being played?
The match will be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Who are the key players to watch?
Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Rashid Khan, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz are among the major players expected to influence the result.

What kind of pitch is expected in Chennai?
The pitch is expected to assist batters while still offering some help to spin bowlers during the middle overs.

---

Get the latest IPL 2026 updates, including match previews, team news, points table, and live results. Check the complete IPL 2026 Match Schedule with fixtures, venues, and timings on CricLegacy. For more cricket updates you can also download the CricLegacy Cricket App.