India have to arrest Aussie momentum

Ahead of the World Cup, India could not have faced a tougher test. From being up 2-0 in the home series, they have been forced into contemplation by a stubborn Australian fightback. With the series on the line on Tuesday, the home team will be determined to fight the odds, in their last one-day international series before the mega event.

The flat track of Mohali might have helped openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma to tuck in some crucial runs, but the Indian fielding and bowling were off the mark. The hosts misread the home conditions for the second successive time and found it tough to keep it going against the heavy dew.

True, India have been experimenting with combinations before the World Cup but defeats in Ranchi and Mohali have snapped open several areas of concern. With the Indian Premier League breathing down their neck after the series, the time is short to redress the issues.

By all means, India will continue with the changes in the final and fifth ODI to give chance to all the World Cup probables. But they also are aware of the importance of winning a series against Australia. Towards that, it is to be seen how they resolve the persistent headache surrounding the No 4 slot.

In Mohali, KL Rahul replaced the chosen No 4 Ambati Rayudu, who is struggling for runs. Rahul came ahead of Kohli at No 3 in a move to give him more match time, but made limited impact. Vijay Shankar impressed with the bat and so did Rishabh Pant, who although, has a lot to make up for after a torrid time behind the wickets. Playing on the home pitch, he will be in a familiar environment. It will also be an opportunity for Kohli as captain to assert himself without the indulgent presence of Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

The bowlers faced a harsh treatment at the hands of Australian batsmen on Sunday. They will be looking to recover their sting. With Feroz Shah Kotla stadium famous for its sluggish surface, it won't be a surprise if Ravindra Jadeja returns to the playing XI. India will also look to spruce up their fielding which was below par in the face of Australian onslaught.

There is no doubt the Australians are bustling with confidence. Their incredible chase of 359 in Mohali to level the series is just the push the team needed after enduring a tough last year. Nearly all their batsman have found form despite a slow start. Peter Handscomb's maiden century and the emergence of a finisher in Ashton Turner have only boosted their campaign towards the World Cup.

Australia had last won a bilateral ODI series in India in 2009 and will be looking for a repeat. However, India boast of a good record at the Kotla where they have won 12 of the 19 ODIs.

Still, Australia begin as favourites on Wednesday. They have pushed the series to the decider, fighting from 0-2 down, much like an edge-of-the-seat five-setter in tennis. How India respond to the challenge will be reflective of their mindset and approach.