India vs South Africa: Bumrah, Axar ruled out as Men in Blue make forced changes for 3rd T20I

Ahead of the crucial 3rd T20 international, Team India made two notable changes to their playing XI for the third T20I against South Africa at the HPCA Stadium in Dharmasala on Sunday. The Suryakumar Yadav-led side brought in Harshit Rana and Kuldeep Yadav in place of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Axar Patel for the crucial encounter.

BCCI Confirms Reasons for Absence

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the reasons behind the changes shortly after the toss. According to the board, Axar Patel was ruled out of the match due to illness, while Jasprit Bumrah returned home owing to personal reasons.

“Axar Patel is unavailable for the third T20I due to illness. Jasprit Bumrah has gone back home for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the game,” the BCCI media team stated. The board added that an update on Bumrah’s availability for the remaining matches would be provided in due course.

Big Misses for the Indian Side

Bumrah’s absence is a significant setback for India, given his proven ability to deliver breakthroughs at crucial moments. He picked up two wickets in the series opener but went wicketless in the second T20I, conceding 45 runs in his four-over spell.

Axar, meanwhile, had made useful contributions with the bat, scoring 23 and 21 in the first two matches. He was also promoted to the No. 3 position during India’s unsuccessful chase of 214 in the second T20I at Mullanpur.

Series Finely Poised

The third T20I holds immense importance as the five-match series stands level. After losing the second match comprehensively, India will be keen to regain momentum.

Speaking after winning the toss and opting to bowl, captain Suryakumar Yadav stressed the need for focus throughout the match. With key players missing, India will aim to rise to the challenge and deliver a disciplined all-round performance in a closely fought series.