India look to clinch series, find middle order options

With Shreyas injured and Axar not picked, the series presents a chance for others to stake their claim

- Rasesh Mandani

Indian cricket's spread of venues is so extensive that this will almost certainly be the last chance for a young fan in Raipur to watch Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli live as they enthrall at the backend of their illustrious journey.

This ODI series against South Africa has felt like a farewell tour of a rock band where a multitude of fans gather for their ‘I was there moment’. Ranchi was packed to capacity to watch the Ro-Ko show. Raipur will be no different on Wednesday.

For Yashasvi Jaiswal, sandwiched between the two batting icons, this will be another chance to emerge from their shadows. He's done it in other formats, and there is no reason why the impressive left-hander cannot find his feet in ODIs. It is merely a matter of when. For that, he will first have to break free after a series of dismissals facing left-arm pace. Perhaps, it is a problem area of balance during stroke play, which he will be working on with the coaches and analysts.