India vs. South Africa: 3 major talking points ahead of ODI series decider in Vizag
Virat Kohli eyes hat-trick at one of his favoured venues
Virat Kohli has been nothing short of sensational in this series, scoring back-to-back centuries in the first two ODIs, and our experts are expecting another big contribution from the star Indian batsman this weekend, according to our India vs South Africa prediction.
Kohli has dealt with the Proteas’ spinners particularly well and is now aiming to complete a hat-trick of centuries at a venue where he has accumulated an exceptional record across his incredible career.
The 37-year-old is the all-time highest run scorer in ODIs in Vizag, with 587 runs in seven innings, including three hundreds and a 99. Since his knock in Raipur, ticket demand for this match has surged, with crowds eager to see King Kohli in action.
Captaincy pressure and potential changes
KL Rahul was thrust into the role of captain for this series following the injury to Shubman Gill, and while he has performed well on an individual level, there have been questions regarding his tactical adjustments during clutch periods in the last two games.
Team selection is also under the microscope for this fixture, and many have been calling for Washington Sundar to be dropped from the starting 11 after the all-rounder only got seven overs in the last two games combined and has yet to take a wicket.
Sundar has not contributed much with the bat either, scoring 14 runs in the two matches, which has resulted in calls for a specialist batsman to be considered instead, particularly Tilak Varma, who can also get in a few overs if needed.
The importance of the toss and the dew factor
The importance of winning the toss was clearly evident in the second ODI between these sides in Raipur, which South Africa won by pulling off a record-equalling run chase and confirming our cricket predictions.
The evening due in India has played a role in both matches so far, as it has made bowling in the second innings much more difficult. India have lost their last 20 tosses and have been asked to bat first in both matches in this series.
In addition to bowlers struggling to grip and find much help with the ball, fielding has also been affected, as we saw in the last match, where India misjudged catches and produced sloppy ground fielding, which contributed to their loss.
