Sunil Gavaskar believes India has already identified its optimal ODI XI, but a star player may have to sit out. This observation comes as India and New Zealand are locked in a 1-1 draw in their three-match ODI series, with the deciding match scheduled for January 18 in Indore.

Gavaskar expressed that had India won the second ODI, there would have been room to experiment with the lineup, potentially giving Yashasvi Jaiswal an opportunity. However, following New Zealand's victory, India can't afford to take any chances and must field their best eleven in the crucial final game. Gavaskar was "surprised by how easily New Zealand got across the line" in the second ODI. He felt that India would be able to restrict New Zealand to around 260 or 270, making it an easy win for India.

Gavaskar praised KL Rahul, acknowledging his talent but also suggesting he has been an "underachiever". Rahul scored his eighth ODI century in the second match against New Zealand in Rajkot. Gavaskar noted that Rahul is now consistently delivering results due to increased confidence in his abilities. He also added that Rahul bats with a lot of elegance.

Daryl Mitchell's performance in the second ODI drew high praise from Gavaskar. Mitchell's unbeaten century, combined with Will Young's contribution, formed a 162-run partnership that shifted the game's momentum. Gavaskar emphasized how Mitchell's persistence in running and putting pressure on the fielders demonstrated his fitness and commitment. Mitchell has an impressive record against India, with 604 runs in 10 innings, averaging 67.11 with a strike rate of 95.11.

Gavaskar lauded the way Mitchell and Young took their time to settle in and then backed their stroke-making ability and running between the wickets. He felt that they showed how a near-300 run total can be chased down.

The former New Zealand player Simon Doull lauded Mitchell for his knock and the manner he took down India's spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja.