New Delhi: Following their success in the T20 series, India continued their winning streak in the ODIs, securing a 2-0 lead against England with victories in Nagpur and Cuttack. The Indian cricket team is now eyeing a clean sweep in the three-match series as they gear up for the final clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Wednesday, February 12. With a 3-0 triumph within reach, the Indian side is determined to maintain their positive momentum heading into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite the haunting memories of their defeat to Australia in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final at the same venue, the team led by Rohit Sharma is focused on the task at hand and aiming for a dominant performance to end the series on a high note.
Narendra Modi Stadium: Pitch report
The pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium has been on a slower side, offering assistance to spinners, with ODI scoring rates typically just below five runs per over. However, in recent years, especially during the Indian Premier League (IPL), the surface has seen increase in pace, making it more easy for run-scoring. However, spinners can still expect some assistance, fans can look forward to a more dynamic and high-scoring encounter between India and England in the third ODI on Wednesday.
Although a high-scoring game is on the cards in Ahmedabad on Wednesday, the venue has traditionally seen low-scoring matches. The average first-innings total at the Narendra Modi Stadium stands at just 237, which is below the par score in today’s cricket. This trend suggests that, despite recent changes to the pitch, both teams may need to adapt their strategies to account for the venue’s historical tendencies.
India has a mixed record at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, having played 20 ODI matches at the venue. Out of which, they have won 11 and lost nine, including their defeat to Australia in the 2023 World Cup final. While India has had some notable successes at the stadium, the loss in the World Cup final serves as a reminder of the challenges they have faced here in high-pressure situations.
England will be playing their first-ever ODI match against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. However, they do have some experience at the venue, having played four matches in total. Out of these, England has won three and lost one, which gives them a solid track record at the ground. Their previous success in Ahmedabad will give them confidence as they face India in this crucial encounter.
Players to Watch Out For at Narendra Modi Stadium
Indian captain Rohit Sharma stands out as the top scorer at the Narendra Modi Stadium, having accumulated 354 runs in just seven innings. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed makes him a key player for India in this match. On the bowling front, the legendary Kapil Dev, also known as the “Haryana Hurricane,” holds the record for the most wickets at the venue, with 10 wickets to his name. His all-round contributions during his time at the stadium have made him a standout performer. Both players will be crucial for India’s performance in the upcoming match against England.