Mumbai: In a major setback for the Caribbean camp, West Indies’ star batsman Justin Greaves has been officially ruled out of the third and final One Day International (ODI) against India due to a calf injury. The concluding match of the series is scheduled to take place at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh, on October 3.
Greaves had a phenomenal start to the tour, slamming a memorable maiden century (101 runs) in the opening match in Thiruvananthapuram, firmly establishing his presence at the top of the order. However, it was during this very gruelling innings that the 32-year-old sustained a severe calf strain. The lingering discomfort subsequently forced the right-handed batsman to sit out the second ODI played in Guwahati earlier this week.
According to updates from the Caribbean camp, a recent evaluation conducted by the West Indies medical team revealed that Greaves’ injury has not fully healed. Acting on the medical assessment, the team management decided against risking their in-form player for the Mullanpur encounter, effectively ruling him out of the series finale.
In his absence, the visitors are highly expected to continue backing Keacy Carty in the playing XI. Carty, who was drafted in as a replacement for Greaves in the second ODI, failed to leave a significant mark, managing a meagre 9 runs off 10 deliveries before being dismissed. The upcoming dead-rubber fixture now presents a crucial opportunity for Carty to prove his worth and solidify his position in the squad.
Meanwhile, the Indian cricket team, which is currently enjoying an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series, will be looking to complete a ruthless clean sweep on home soil. On the other hand, the West Indies will be desperately hoping to secure a much-needed consolation victory to salvage some pride. However, overcoming a formidable Indian lineup has undoubtedly become a much harder challenge for the visitors without their centurion leading the charge.