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New Delhi: The ongoing three-match ODI series between India and South Africa has now reached the decisive match. Both the teams are tied at 1-1. This final match will be held on December 10 at the cricket stadium in Visakhapatnam.

The Indian team would like to maintain its lead against South Africa at home, while the Proteas will aim to win a bilateral ODI series in India for the first time since 2015.

India’s excellent record in Visakhapatnam

The ground in Visakhapatnam has always been lucky for the Indian team. A total of 10 ODI international matches have been played here, out of which India has won 7, lost 2 and one was tied. Its winning percentage is more than 70%.

However, what is a matter of concern is that India’s last ODI win at this ground was against West Indies in March 2019. After that, in March 2023, Australia defeated India at the same venue. The Indian team is returning to this ground after almost 6 years and the fans are hopeful that the old magic will return.

New ground for South Africa

The South African team has not yet played any ODI match in Visakhapatnam. His experience here is limited to just two matches—a Test in 2019 and a T20I in 2022. They had to face defeat at the hands of India in both the matches.

This means that the Proteas’ record so far on this ground is zero. If they want to win the series, not only will they have to beat India but also register their first win at this ground.

strength of both teams

India has a strong line-up of experienced batsmen. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul (captain) are all in form. Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar have the ability to play important roles in the spin department, while Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana are injecting new energy in fast bowling.

On the other hand, South Africa’s team is young and aggressive. Under the captaincy of Temba Bavuma, players like Quinton de Kock, Aiden Markram, and Dewald Brewis are present. In bowling, Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen and Lungi Ngidi have the ability to change the course of the match.