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England have unveiled their playing XI for the fifth and final Test against India at The Oval, London, starting Thursday, July 31. With the series finely poised at 2-1 in England’s favour, the hosts will look to seal a memorable home victory, while India aim to level the series and deny England a series win. The contest promises to be a high-intensity clash, with both teams expected to bring their best to the decider.
Ben Stokes ruled out with shoulder injury
In a major setback for England, captain and all-rounder Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the series decider due to a shoulder injury. Stokes, who played a pivotal role in England’s wins in the third and fourth Tests and was named Player of the Match on both occasions, suffered discomfort during his extended bowling spell in Manchester.
India batted for 143 overs across five sessions in the final innings of the fourth Test, forcing Stokes to bowl 35 overs in total. The 33-year-old was visibly clutching his right shoulder on multiple occasions, raising concerns about his fitness. With England already leading the series 2-1, the management has decided not to risk aggravating his injury.
Also READ: Dhruv Jurel vs N Jagadeesan: Who will be a better choice for India in the Oval Test?
England announce four changes for the Oval Test
England have made four changes from the side that played in the drawn Manchester Test. Skipper Stokes, pacers Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse, and spinner Liam Dawson are the players missing out. Ollie Pope will take over the captaincy in Stokes’ absence, while Jacob Bethell, Josh Tongue, and Jamie Overton come into the XI, bolstering both the batting and bowling departments.
The selection reflects England’s intent to field a balanced side, with fresh pace options and a young all-rounder in Bethell, who is set to make his debut at No. 6.
England’s playing XI for the Oval Test:
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue
