India face multiple selection dilemmas heading into the fifth and final Test of the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England.
Despite trailing 1-2, India carry momentum after securing an improbable draw at Old Trafford, having lost two wickets for no runs and overcoming a 311-run first-innings deficit. However, injury concerns loom ahead of the final Test.
The biggest question hangs over Jasprit Bumrah, India's joint-highest wicket-taker in the series. He has already featured in three matches – the maximum workload limit set pre-series – and appeared hampered at Old Trafford, bowling slower and limping after sending down just one over with the second new ball.
Also read: Jasprit Bumrah brings up unwanted maiden Test century to underline rarity of struggle
In Bumrah’s likely absence, India’s pace reserves are also stretched. Both Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh missed the fourth Test due to fitness issues. Compounding their woes, Rishabh Pant – their first-choice keeper and the series’ third-highest run-scorer – has been ruled out with a foot fracture, leaving the tourists with yet another selection dilemma.
"I can understand why England were irked. I can't understand why they kept on once the decision had been declined or the offer had been declined, because India were well within their rights to do so."#ENGvINDhttps://t.co/pjAThi8lEz
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) July 29, 2025
India aren’t the only side battling injuries, as England named their Oval Test XI without skipper Ben Stokes, who has been ruled out with a right shoulder injury.
