Jasprit Bumrah IN, this star player OUT, India’s probable playing 11 for Guwahati
India’s Probable Playing 11: Fresh off a record-shattering chase in Raipur, Suryakumar Yadav’s Men in Blue head to the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati this Sunday. With a 2-0 lead in the bag, the focus remains on securing an unassailable series victory before the 2026 T20 World Cup kicks off in February. However, the biggest talking point is the return of India’s pace spearhead and how it affects the bowling combination.
Will Arshdeep make way for Jasprit Bumrah?
The most significant selection dilemma revolves around the return of Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested during the second T20I in Raipur. While his inclusion is a non-negotiable for a series-clinching game, the question is who drops out. Arshdeep Singh found himself in the crosshairs after a tough outing in Raipur, where he conceded 53 runs in his 4 overs without a wicket. With Harshit Rana impressing in his limited opportunities and providing extra batting depth at No. 8, the management might consider resting Arshdeep to bring Bumrah back into the frontline attack.
Abhishek and Samson to open
Despite Ishan Kishan’s blistering 76 off 32 balls in the last game, he is likely to continue in the middle order to maintain the Abhishek Sharma-Sanju Samson opening duo. Abhishek, currently the world’s top-ranked T20I batter, and Samson provide the high-intent start India is looking to solidify. Kishan’s flexibility at No. 3 or 4 allows India to keep a left-hand option ready for the middle overs.
Middle-Order stability
The middle order looks rock-solid with captain Suryakumar Yadav coming off a sensational 82* that reminded everyone why he is the king of this format. He is followed by the explosive finishing trio of Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Rinku Singh. This lineup offers multiple bowling options and ensures that India can maintain a high strike rate even if early wickets fall.
The spin trap and pace battery
Guwahati’s pitch is a verified ‘belter,’ but the evening dew will make the toss critical. Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav are expected to lead the spin department, especially with Axar Patel still being monitored for a hand injury. If Axar is fit, he likely replaces Kuldeep or Harshit Rana to lengthen the batting. The pace attack will be led by the returning Jasprit Bumrah, supported by the raw pace of Harshit Rana or the left-arm angle of Arshdeep Singh.
India’s Predicted 11 for 3rd T20I:
Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh/Harshit Rana, Varun Chakravarthy.