It doesn’t get more intense than this. With the ODI series locked at 1-1, the India vs SA 3rd ODI has all the makings of an instant classic. The pressure is immense, the stakes are sky-high, and both teams are desperate for a series win. For fans, it’s a dream scenario – a winner-takes-all clash that promises edge-of-the-seat action from the first ball to the last. After a thrilling performance in Raipur, where Virat Kohli lit up the stadium with another century, all eyes are now on Visakhapatnam for the grand finale.
The final and decisive match of the series will be played on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
The Vizag pitch has historically been a balanced one, offering something for both batsmen and bowlers, which should make for a fascinating contest of skill and strategy.
You won’t have to look far to catch all the action from this crucial series decider. The broadcast rights for the series are held by a major sports network, ensuring wide coverage across the country.
Make sure you have your subscription ready, so you don’t miss a single boundary or wicket! For more on other upcoming fixtures, check out our guide on [INTERNAL_LINK:upcoming-cricket-schedule].
Both teams are nearly at full strength, setting the stage for a true test of their depth and talent.
India’s squad for the series saw the return of key players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, who replaced the injured Shubman Gill, and the ever-reliable Ravindra Jadeja . With KL Rahul at the helm, the team is looking to solidify its middle order. All-rounders like Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy are expected to play crucial roles with both bat and ball .
South Africa is led by the experienced Temba Bavuma. Their squad is a potent mix of youth and experience, featuring explosive talents like Dewald Brevis and the reliable wicket-keeper batter Quinton de Kock . Their pace attack, led by Nandre Burger, will be key to cracking the Indian batting lineup.
When the pressure mounts, champions rise. And right now, Virat Kohli is in the form of his life. He has been a revelation in this series, smashing back-to-back ODI centuries. He notched up his 52nd ODI century on November 30th and followed it with his 53rd on December 3rd in Raipur [[25], [22]].
These weren’t just runs; they were statements. In a year where he’s already accumulated 275 runs in just 7 ODI innings, Kohli is proving that he remains the backbone of the Indian batting order . His ability to anchor the innings while accelerating at will makes him the ultimate player for a high-pressure game like this decider. History also shows that 44 of his ODI centuries have led to an India victory, a statistic that will give the entire team a massive boost .
The India vs SA 3rd ODI is more than just a game; it’s a battle for supremacy. With a series win on the line, expect both sides to leave everything on the field. India, buoyed by Kohli’s masterclass, will be confident, but a talented and resilient South African side will be just as determined to clinch the trophy. It’s the perfect recipe for a cricketing spectacle you simply can’t afford to miss. Tune in to JioHotstar or Star Sports and witness history in the making!
[1] Cricinfo – India vs South Africa, 3rd ODI Match Details
[4] TOI – India vs South Africa ODIs 2025: Get series preview
[6] Cricbuzz – IND vs SA 3rd ODI Match Details, Schedule
[7] Various – IND vs SA 3rd ODI Live Streaming details
[14] TOI – India vs South Africa ODIs 2025: Get series preview
[16] Various – IND vs SA 2025: India squad for ODI series revealed
[19] Various – South Africa announce ODI and T20I squads for India tour
[20] Cricket statistics – Virat Kohli ODI 2025 Records
[22] Various – Virat Kohli Total Centuries in All Formats (2025 Updated)
[25] Various – Virat Kohli Century List in All Formats
[27] Various – First Time In 7 Years: Virat Kohli’s ‘Century Luck’ Runs Out
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