India faces West Indies in the third ODI at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur on October 3, 2026. India has already secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, making this a dead-rubber contest. The match marks a significant milestone for the venue, which will host its maiden ODI.
Naman Dhir, the right-arm spin-bowling all-rounder, earned his maiden ODI call-up for the West Indies series. In the first ODI, he sent down a wicketless spell that conceded 33 runs in five overs. In the second ODI, he bowled 6.1 overs for 38 runs. He hasn’t been needed with the bat so far. Speaking ahead of the third ODI, Dhir shared his assessment of what would constitute a competitive total at the Mullanpur venue, his home ground.
“I will keep it simple. I will think that I have extra pressure and responsibility to do well here. I will do what I have been doing. I haven’t seen the wicket yet, and we can’t assess and prepare accordingly. If it’s prepared as per what I know, it will be a good total of 290-300,” Dhir said in the pre-match press conference.
The debutant noted that India did not train on the penultimate day, which meant he had not yet inspected the pitch before making his prediction. His assessment was based on his understanding of how the new venue typically prepares its surfaces for international cricket. The pitch is expected to favour batters in its inaugural ODI, though the pitch could tire after 20-25 overs of play.
Dhir expressed his gratitude at the opportunity to play at his home ground, a venue where he has accumulated considerable experience. He reflected on the unexpected nature of his selection and the significance of representing India at a familiar location.
“I had no idea that I would be picked in the Indian team and would play a match at my home ground. I have played a lot here and know it well. After the Sher-e-Punjab tournament, I had no idea about getting a call-up to the Indian team. It is a great feeling full of gratitude, and I always want to give my best,” Dhir said.
Also Read: Abhishek Sharma hits 100 T20 sixes for the second year running in 2026
If given an opportunity to bat, Dhir indicated he would adopt a flexible approach rather than adhering to a predetermined strategy. His batting plan would depend entirely on the match situation and the team’s requirements at the time.
“The plan is simple – I will not go in with a fixed plan if I get a chance to bat. It depends on the situation and the demand of the team. So, as per that, I will plan my batting innings in the game,” Dhir said.
