IND vs SA: India and KL Rahul Finally Break Toss Jinx After 20 Matches in 3rd ODI Against South Africa

IND vs SA: India walked into the series-deciding third ODI against South Africa in Visakhapatnam with an early moment of relief as they finally won a toss. The toss drought had stretched all the way back

to the 2023 World Cup final- which is around 20 matches, becoming an ongoing narrative around India's one-day outings. On Saturday, that storyline finally ended.

Rahul wasted no time in choosing to bowl first, keeping in mind the growing influence of dew during night games at the venue. Speaking at the toss, the Indian skipper explained that preparations the night before confirmed the likelihood of heavy dew, making chasing a more favourable option.

"We are going to bowl first," Rahul said. "We trained here yesterday and noticed the dew settling later compared to Ranchi and Raipur. It'll be interesting to see how we bowl in these conditions. The pitch looks good, and we're pleased with how the last two matches have gone. There are plenty of positives to build on. "

India made one adjustment to their XI, drafting Tilak Varma in place of Washington Sundar, signalling a tactical call favouring extra batting depth and part-time spin.

South Africa, meanwhile, were forced into two changes. Ryan Rickelton and Ottneil Baartman came into the side as Nandre Burger and Tony de Zorzi were ruled out for at least two weeks due to injuries. Captain Temba Bavuma admitted that the visitors would also have preferred to chase.

"We would have bowled first as well," Bavuma shared. "A strong start will be important, and from there we'll look to set up a competitive total. It's been a fun shift from red-ball to white-ball cricket, and the crowd has been fantastic. "

With the series level at 1-1, the stakes couldn't be higher. All eyes will be on Virat Kohli, who has been in scintillating form, scoring centuries in consecutive matches.

As both sides take the field in what promises to be a thrilling decider, conditions, toss luck, and composure under lights may prove just as crucial as skill.