2-0 up, India ‘A’ eyes whitewash

CHENNAI: Having already sealed the three-match series, India ‘A’ could make a few changes to its eleven when it takes on New Zealand ‘A’ in the third and final one-dayer at the MA Chidambaram Stadium here on Tuesday.

The Sanju Samson-led India ‘A’, which won by seven and four wickets in the first and second match respectively, holds an unassailable 2-0 lead. High on confidence, the home team would eye a whitewash irrespective of the players who take the field.

Opening batter Prithvi Shaw has been in fine form and will head into the match on the back of an amazing fifty that was studded with boundaries all over the park. His opening partner Ruturaj Gaikwad is yet to deliver his best at ‘home away from home’ (he represents Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League). Meanwhile, middle-order batters Rajat Patidar and Samson would hope to make the most of the opportunity. In the bowling department, pacers Shardul Thakur and Kuldeep Sen, and chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav have been the shining lights.

As far as New Zealand ‘A’ is concerned, the visitor would look to end the tour on a high. All-rounder Mark Chapman, who has been picked in New Zealand’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia, is expected to remain on the sidelines due to a niggle.