The fifth and final ODI between India and South Africa is scheduled to be played in Mumbai on October 25, Sunday. MS Dhoni's men in blue looked in full control on Thursday as they beat the Proteas by 25 runs to level the 5-match series 2-2. Now, the action moves to Wankhede where the series decider will be played.
A few patchy clouds will welcome players in Mumbai on Sunday. Maximum temperature is likely to settle around 36°C and is expected to fall to 28°C by 8.00 PM IST. There's no chance of rain and the match is expected to go through without any delay or interruption on account of weather.
As reiterated by Skymet, humidity was a big challenge for players in Chennai. Virat Kohli (138 runs) played a long innings in humid conditions and was not able to take field in the second innings due to cramps. High humidity levels tested the visitors and the home side alike. Mumbai will also experience humid conditions and about 38% humidity is expected at start of play. This will, however, rise to around 60-70% at night. Light winds will continue to blow over the region and will offer very little relief to the players.
After an all-round match winning show at Chepauk earlier this week, team India look confident going into the final ODI. Virat Kohli is back in form and even Suresh Raina's gritty knock of 53 pleased fans last Thursday. Harbhajan Singh has justified his selection. Also, the spin duo of Mishra and Axar rattled the Proteas batting line-up, thereby exposing their weakness against spin for the first time in the series. South Africa are struggling to cope with the absence of star all-rounder JP Duminy and experienced pacer Morne Morkel. Hashim Amla's struggling form is also worrying the team which has the best away record in international cricket. But under no condition can we underestimate the 'Protea Fire'.
To sum it up, a riveting contest awaits cricket enthusiasts on Sunday as India and South Africa battle it out for the last time in limited overs cricket on this tour. The winner, as always, takes it all. We will keep you updated on weather, cricket, and more as the Freedom Series concludes, and the Test series begins.
(Featured Image Credit: cricbuzz.com)
