High-Stakes Battle in IND vs SA 3rd ODI: Pitch and Weather Report Unveiled

In a crucial face-off between India and South Africa, the third and decisive ODI of the series will unfold today at Boland Park. With the series currently tied at 1-1, today's match holds immense significance as it will determine the series victor. India secured a convincing 8-wicket victory in the first ODI, while South Africa responded with an 8-wicket win in the second.

The weather at Boland Park during the match is expected to be hot, with a temperature around 36 degrees Celsius. Although the possibility of rain is minimal, fast bowlers may find some assistance in the early overs. Boland Park is known for its small boundaries, and outfield conditions suggest that a rain of fours and sixes is likely.

In terms of historical performance, the average ODI score at this venue is 236 runs, but scores close to 300 can be achievable in today's match. The highest score at Boland Park is 353 runs, making it a potentially high-scoring encounter.

Noteworthy is the fact that India has won 8 out of 15 matches while batting first at this ground, while teams batting second have won 6 times, with one match ending in a tie.

In this series, two Indian players, Sai Sudarshan and Rinku Singh, made their ODI debuts. Today's match may witness the debut of another young player. If Mukeesh Kumar doesn't play, Bengal's player Akash Deep might get a chance in the team.

With the Test series looming after the ODIs, the team management may opt to give some rest to key players, possibly providing an opportunity for players like Akash Deep to showcase their skills.

Experienced leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal may also get a chance in the playing eleven, replacing either Kuldeep Yadav or Axar Patel. Vijay Hazare Trophy's standout performer, Chahal, can bring a valuable spin option to the team.

The expected Indian playing eleven for the third ODI: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sai Sudarshan, Tilak Varma, KL Rahul (Captain), Sanju Samson (Wicketkeeper), Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar/Akash Deep.