Explanation:

The **Third Battle of Panipat** was a monumental clash fought on January 14, 1761, between the invading Afghan forces of **Ahmed Shah Abdali** and the **Maratha Empire**. This battle, one of the largest and most significant in Indian history, resulted in a decisive victory for Abdali, severely weakening the Maratha power and paving the way for the rise of the British in India. Option B correctly identifies the combatants. Option A refers to the First Battle of Panipat (1526), fought between Babur and Ibrahim Lodi, which established the Mughal Empire. Option C refers to the Battle of Samel or Giri-Sumel (1544) between Akbar's forces (though Akbar was a child at the time, his generals fought) and Sher Shah Suri, or more commonly, the conflicts between Humayun and Sher Shah Suri, which led to the temporary overthrow of Mughal rule. Option D refers to the Battle of Chausa (1539) and the Battle of Kannauj (1540), both fought between Sher Shah Suri and Humayun, leading to Humayun's exile.