India is set to make significant changes to their playing XI for the crucial fifth Test against England, with Karun Nair expected to return and several key bowling alterations.
Major Changes for the Final Test
The Indian team is set to bolster its batting lineup by bringing in Karun Nair for the all-important final Test. He is expected to replace pace all-rounder Shardul Thakur, who featured in the fourth Test.
In another significant change, young wicket-keeper Dhruv Jurel will step in for the injured Rishabh Pant. Pant was ruled out of the series due to a foot fracture, opening the door for Jurel.
The pace department will also see fresh faces. Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna are expected to join the attack, while Jasprit Bumrah and Anshul Kamboj will miss out. Mohammed Siraj is set to lead the pace battery.
Bumrah’s Workload Takes Priority
A major decision involves resting star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. The team management has decided to stick to their pre-decided plan of playing him in only three Tests this series, despite the series being on the line.
Coach Gautam Gambhir had previously affirmed this approach, stating there would be “no compromise on workload.” This commitment to player management remains firm.
Bumrah’s absence provides Mohammed Siraj another opportunity to spearhead the pace attack. Siraj previously embraced this leadership role in Birmingham, where he not only took responsibility but also mentored Akash Deep, who had a stellar performance.
Bolstering Batting and Bowling Dynamics
Karun Nair’s inclusion is a strategic move, aimed at strengthening India’s batting. This decision comes after Shardul Thakur’s bowling was not as effective in the previous Test in Manchester.
With Nair joining the lineup, India is likely to field an extra specialist batsman. The competition for the crucial No. 3 spot has been a consistent point of discussion, with Nair and Sai Sudharsan both vying for the position throughout the series.
India plans to maintain a five-bowler strategy, featuring three specialist bowlers and two all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar. This setup means every bowler will need to perform consistently.
Unfortunately for left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav and pacer Arshdeep Singh, they are likely to finish the tour without playing a single game. The grassy pitch conditions in London further influenced the decision to prioritize batting depth over an additional spinner.
England’s Own Lineup Changes
Across the aisle, England has already announced their playing XI for the match. They will be without their regular captain Ben Stokes, who has been ruled out due to a shoulder injury.
In Stokes’ absence, Ollie Pope will step up to lead the English side for this decisive encounter.
- Karun Nair is set to replace Shardul Thakur to strengthen India’s batting lineup.
- Jasprit Bumrah will be rested as per workload management, with Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna joining the pace attack.
- Dhruv Jurel steps in as wicket-keeper for the injured Rishabh Pant.
- England captain Ben Stokes is ruled out with injury, and Ollie Pope will lead their team.
These significant lineup changes from both sides promise a compelling and unpredictable contest in the series finale.
