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Mohali ODI: Raina ruled out; Rohit spends considerable time at nets

October 23, 2016 00:07 IST

Rohit Sharma

IMAGE: Indian player Rohit Sharma during a practice session ahead of the 3rd ODI against New Zealand at the PCA Stadium in Mohali on Saturday. Photograph: PTI.

Suresh Raina is still not available for selection for India's third ODI against New Zealand as "he has not yet fully recovered from viral fever" but Rohit Sharma spent a considerable time at the nets in an indication that he could be a part of the playing XI on Sunday.

Rohit Sharma

IMAGE: Indian players play football during a practice session. Photograph: PTI.

Rohit, who was in discomfort after getting out for 15 in the last game in Delhi, spent a long time in the nets as the Indian team underwent a routine net session ahead of the game.

All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who almost got his side over the line on Thursday in the second one-dayer, was not a part of the optional training session on Saturday.

Virat Kohli

IMAGE: Team India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Virat Kohli during a team practice session. Photograph: PTI.

Batting mainstay Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane had a long net session, in which they mostly faced throw downs.

Skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who failed to finish the game in Delhi too had an extensive session, playing both pace and spin.

Vetaran curator Daljit Singh has promised a batting surface. The pitch, which has been used once earlier in the season, sported a tinge of green less than 24 hours before the game.

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