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For the fifth and final Test match against India in Dharamsala, England have opted for a notable change in their playing XI. The team’s selection signals a deliberate strategic adjustment for the forthcoming encounter, scheduled to commence on Thursday, March 7.
Mark Wood replaces Ollie Robinson
The solitary modification entails the inclusion of Mark Wood into the lineup, replacing Ollie Robinson. This decision underscores the team’s intent to leverage Wood’s expertise and skillset, particularly to reinforce England’s bowling attack. By introducing Wood, England aims to augment the depth and adaptability of their bowling resources, thereby strengthening their ability to challenge the Indian batting lineup on the conducive Dharamsala pitch.
Currently trailing 1-3 in the five-match series under the leadership of Ben Stokes, the English side is poised to strive for a consolation victory in the final leg against Rohit Sharma and his formidable team.
Also READ: IND vs ENG 2024, 5th Test: HPCA Stadium Pitch Report, Dharamsala Weather Forecast, Test Stats & Records | India vs England
England’s playing XI for the fifth Test against India:
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes (captain), Ben Foakes, Tom Hartley, Mark, James Anderson, Shoaib Bashir
Joe Root wishes Jonny Bairstow on his 100th Test
In a significant milestone for English cricket, Jonny Bairstow is poised to become the 17th English cricketer to achieve the remarkable feat of playing 100 Test matches. Bairstow is set to reach this milestone during the Dharamsala Test.
Acknowledging Bairstow’s achievements, former England skipper Joe Root extended his congratulations to the right-handed batter, highlighting the significance of his impressive career. Root praised Bairstow’s exceptional talent and dedication, emphasizing his ability to consistently perform at the highest level.
Also READ: IND vs ENG – Jonny Bairstow reflects on the significance of playing 100 Tests for England
“Jonny was always the superstar. He had the difficult tag of following in his father’s footsteps but he always lived up to it. He was someone who always excelled and was top of the class as we were coming through at Yorkshire,” Root was quoted as saying on the Sky Sports Podcast.
“As he was a very talented sportsman growing up – especially if you ask him! He is also one of those genuinely kind people that wants to do everything for you. It might not always come across like that on the screen but he has a really good heart and is someone that will always have your back and look after you,” added Root.
