England have confirmed a reshuffled playing XI for the fifth and final Test against India at The Oval, set to begin on July 31, with captain Ben Stokes ruled out due to a shoulder injury. Stokes, who has been instrumental with both bat and ball throughout the series, sustained a niggle during the final day of the Manchester Test, compounding existing shoulder and hamstring concerns.
In addition to Stokes, spinner Liam Dawson and fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse will also miss the Oval Test. In their place, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Overton, Gus Atkinson, and Josh Tongue have been drafted in as England aim to clinch the series, which they currently lead 2-1.
Ollie Pope will step in as stand-in captain, marking a significant moment in his career as he leads the side on home turf.
“The England Men’s team has announced four changes to their XI for the Rothesay Fifth Test against India at the Kia Oval. Captain Ben Stokes is unavailable due to a right shoulder injury. Also missing out are spinner Liam Dawson and pace bowlers Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse,” read a statement from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
Key Changes and Replacements:
- Jacob Bethell will slot in at No.6 and is expected to play a dual role, also serving as the team’s primary spinner in Dawson’s absence.
- Gus Atkinson returns to replace Archer after overcoming recent injury concerns. The Surrey pacer last featured for England in their one-off Test against Zimbabwe.
- Josh Tongue, who impressed in the early stages of the series, is back in the XI after missing the last two matches.
- Jamie Overton joins the pace attack, adding extra depth and bounce to the bowling unit.
Stokes’ absence will be keenly felt. The all-rounder has amassed 304 runs, including a century in Manchester, and leads the wicket charts for England with 17 dismissals in four Tests.
England Playing XI for the Oval Test:
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Ollie Pope (captain)
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Jacob Bethell
- Jamie Smith (wk)
- Chris Woakes
- Gus Atkinson
- Jamie Overton
- Josh Tongue