Will Renuka and Deepti Make a Difference as India Bowls First Against Sri Lanka in 3rd T20I?
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Synopsis
In the crucial third T20I against Sri Lanka, India’s captain Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss and opted to bowl first. With key players Renuka Singh Thakur and Deepti Sharma returning, India aims to solidify their lead in the series. This match is a great opportunity to clinch the series. Will they succeed?
Key Takeaways
- India leads the series 2-0.
- Renuka and Deepti's return strengthens the squad.
- Harmanpreet aims for an aggressive approach in the powerplay.
- Sri Lanka's youth will be on display in this match.
- The match is crucial for both teams' strategies moving forward.
Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 26 (NationPress) Fast bowler Renuka Singh Thakur and all-rounder Deepti Sharma rejoin India’s squad as captain Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss and decided to bowl first against Sri Lanka in the third T20I of the five-match series at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday.
With a 2-0 advantage in the series, a victory today will secure the series for India. Harmanpreet, winning the toss for the third consecutive time, announced that Renuka and Deepti, who were unavailable for the second T20I in Visakhapatnam due to minor illness, replace Sneh Rana and Arundhati Reddy, who are being rested for this match.
“Considering the conditions and the expected dew, we believe this is the optimal choice. With the series at stake, we wanted to leverage our strengths and keep our approach straightforward. The directive has been clear from the outset - even while at the hotel before arriving at the stadium.
“This match holds significant importance, providing a fantastic chance to clinch the series. We need to play confidently, adhere to our strategies, and enjoy the game. We aim to adopt a more aggressive stance during the powerplay, hence Renuka's return,” she stated.
On the other hand, Sri Lanka's captain Chamari Athapaththu revealed three alterations in their lineup, with Imesha Dulani and two others coming in. “We would have opted to bowl as well had we won the toss. I’ve encouraged them to play their natural game.
“We have some young talents, and this is a wonderful platform for them to demonstrate their abilities. The squad is youthful, still evolving, and every match presents a learning opportunity. With the World Cup approaching, this is an excellent chance to showcase quality cricket,” she added.
Playing XIs:
India: Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Richa Ghosh (wk), Deepti Sharma, Amanjot Kaur, Vaishnavi Sharma, Kranti Gaud, Renuka Singh Thakur, and Sree Charani.
Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Imesha Dulani, Kaushani Nuthyangana (wk), Malsha Shehani, Inoka Ranaweera, Malki Madara, and Nimesha Madushani.
Point of View
It’s crucial to recognize the significance of this match in the cricketing calendar. With India poised to clinch the series and the return of pivotal players, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. This match not only highlights the skill and resilience of the Indian team but also provides a platform for Sri Lanka's young talents to shine.
NationPress
10/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of this match?
This match is crucial for India as they lead the series 2-0. A win will secure the series victory.
Who are the key players returning for India?
Pacer Renuka Singh Thakur and all-rounder Deepti Sharma are returning to the squad.
What changes have been made to Sri Lanka's lineup?
Sri Lanka has made three changes, including Imesha Dulani coming into the playing XI.
What was the captain's strategy for this match?
India's captain emphasized playing with confidence and being aggressive during the powerplay.
Where is the match being played?
The match is being played at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
