Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the fifth and final Test against India at The Kia Oval due to a right shoulder injury, prompting a reshuffle in the England playing XI. The match begins this Thursday as part of the Rothesay Test series.
The England selection panel has made four changes in total. Alongside Stokes, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, and Brydon Carse have also been left out of the squad.
New faces as England reshuffle for Oval finale
In their place, England have called up Jacob Bethell, who will bat at No.6 and make his Test debut. Also joining the side are Surrey pacers Gus Atkinson and Jamie Overton, as well as Josh Tongue from Nottinghamshire.
Ollie Pope will captain the side in Stokes’ absence, while Jamie Smith continues as wicketkeeper.
England playing XI for the 5th Test vs India
Zak Crawley
Ben Duckett
Ollie Pope (c)
Joe Root
Harry Brook
Jacob Bethell
Jamie Smith (wk)
Chris Woakes
Gus Atkinson
Jamie Overton
Josh Tongue
This marks a significant test for England’s depth and resilience as they close out the series against a strong Indian side. Stokes’ absence will be keenly felt both for his all-round abilities and his leadership presence.
Stokes injury adds to England’s selection challenges
Stokes’ right shoulder injury had been under close observation during the series, and the medical team ultimately ruled him unfit for the final Test. His absence forces England to rely on a relatively inexperienced middle and lower order, with Bethell and Smith tasked with key roles.
The match at The Kia Oval is set to draw a large crowd as the two cricketing giants wrap up what has been an intense and closely contested Test series.
