IND vs AFG: 3rd T20I Preview – Bengaluru all set to host the riveting finale clash

Having taken a 2-0 lead in the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, India will look to complete a whitewash in the final game on Wednesday, January 17 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. The Men in Blue stormed to a six-wicket win in the second T20I in Indore courtesy of a breathtaking batting display from Yashasvi Jaiswal (68 off 34) and Shivam Dube (63* off 32).

Having already won the series, the team management will look to test their bench strength with the final T20I being their last opportunity to do so before the all-important T20 World Cup 2024 scheduled to be held in the West Indies and USA from June 01.

On the other hand, Afghanistan will be desperate for a consolation win in the final T20I and save some pride. The Ibrahim Zadran-led side has been a bit underwhelming with the bat and had to settle for below-par scores in the first two matches. Considering the batting strength of the Indian side, they will require a total above 200 to challenge them on the batting paradise at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Hence, the final T20I promises to be another riveting clash between the two sides who still have a lot to play for in the series.

Pitch Report

Out of the eight completed T20I matches played at the venue, five have been won by teams chasing. However, out of the last five games, three have been won by teams batting first. The average first innings score at the venue has been 155 while the highest target chased is 191. The captain winning the toss is likely to bowl first, keeping the record of the venue in mind.

Probable Playing XI