MS Dhoni to be rested for final two Australia ODIs
India conceded the third ODI by 32 runs as Australia clinched their first win of the series in Ranchi. The visitors put up 313/5 in 50 overs and dismissed the home side for 281. Dhoni, playing in his hometown, was bowled for a 42-ball 26.
"There will certainly be some changes (in the XI) because Mahi (Dhoni) is not going to play the final two matches. He is taking rest," Bangar said after the game on Friday, 8 March. "Also, Shami got hurt today in his leg, so we will need to check whether he can be fit for the day after (fourth ODI). If he does not get fit, then Bhuvneshwar Kumar could come in."
Australia stay in the series with victory in Ranchi!
— ICC (@ICC) March 8, 2019
India are dismissed for 281, Zampa, Richardson and Cummins starring with three wickets each after Usman Khawaja's maiden ODI century helped set up a 32 run win!#INDvAUS scorecard ➡️ https://t.co/xhuelaz27S pic.twitter.com/MzUkLZosPi
Virat Kohli, the India skipper, also hinted at a few changes to the line-up for the last two ODIs. With the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2019 fast approaching – the first game will be played on 30 May – India will be keen to give everyone an equal opportunity to book their spot for the multi-nation tournament.
"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. "The guys are excited and looking forward to it. A little hiccup in the middle, but we will regroup and come back stronger."
The final two ODIs will be played on 10 and 13 March respectively.