The stage is perfectly set for the final ODI between India and England at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With the series already in India’s pocket, the Men in Blue are aiming to end on a high and complete a 3-0 whitewash. This match provides India not just the chance to build momentum for the upcoming Champions Trophy but also an opportunity to test their bench strength ahead of the big tournament, which begins in a few days.

The second ODI in Cuttack was all about Rohit Sharma’s brilliance. The Indian skipper smashed his 32nd ODI century to lead the team to a clinical series win. Chasing a daunting target of 305, Rohit and Shubman Gill got India off to a flying start with a magnificent 100-run opening partnership. Axar Patel and Shreyas Iyer played vital knocks in the middle, ensuring a smooth chase with overs to spare. Earlier, England had set a competitive total with solid contributions from Ben Duckett and Joe Root, both scoring half-centuries. Jos Buttler added a useful 34, but it wasn’t enough to keep England in the series.

Now, as the action shifts to Ahmedabad, India will want to finish with a clean sweep. This game could also see some new faces in the playing XI. Players like Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, and Arshdeep Singh, who haven’t featured in the series so far, might get a chance. Arshdeep, who is part of India’s Champions Trophy squad, could benefit from some match practice ahead of the tournament. Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who played the first ODI, might also return to the side with the series already decided.

Narendra Modi Stadium has been a happy hunting ground for Shubman Gill as his highest T20I score came over here back in 2023. He had scored 126* against New Zealand and then had a stellar season in the IPL as well. He scored 572 runs in Ahmedabad in the 2023 season which included 2 centuries and 3 fifties. Riding on his T20 record at this ground, one can expect a similar show from Gill in the Ahmedabad ODI.

Ahmedabad hasn’t always been a happy hunting ground for India in ODIs. Out of the 20 games played here, they have won 11 and lost 9. The last time India played an ODI at this venue was the heartbreaking World Cup final in November 2023, where they fell short against Australia. However, this will be the first time India and England face each other in an ODI at this stadium.

The pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium has traditionally been on the slower side, favoring spinners. However, IPL matches here have shown that it can also be conducive to high-scoring games. With India’s batting in great form and England eager to bounce back, fans can expect an exciting finish to the series. Will India achieve the whitewash, or will England end on a winning note? All will be decided in Ahmedabad.