India’s premier fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, is unlikely to feature in the crucial fifth Test against England at The Oval as the visitors strive to avoid a series defeat in 2025. Having returned from a lengthy three-month injury layoff, Bumrah has already participated in three Tests during this series, which was the predetermined limit set by the team management to manage his workload effectively.
India managed a dramatic draw in the fourth Test at Old Trafford last Sunday, yet they find themselves trailing 2-1 in the five-match series, making the final Test a must-win situation.
The Indian bowling lineup was significantly weakened for the fourth Test due to injuries to Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh, along with Nitish Kumar Reddy, who had to return home because of a knee injury. Narayan Jagadeesan has been added to the squad, serving as the backup wicketkeeper.
Anshul Kamboj made his Test debut in Manchester, while head coach Gautam Gambhir assured fans that they would have a fully fit bowling contingent for the crucial match at The Oval, scheduled to start on Thursday. However, India’s batting line-up will be missing stumper-batter Rishabh Pant, who has been sidelined due to a foot fracture sustained during the first innings of the last Test.
Bumrah’s Limited Participation
India has placed limitations on Bumrah’s participation, insisting that he only play in three Tests due to concerns over his previous back injury. This strategy, while prudent, has proven to be overly inflexible as they now face the urgent need for his skills in a decisive match, especially considering the taxing number of overs he bowled in the north-west during the last game. England’s batsmen would undoubtedly breathe a sigh of relief should Bumrah be unable to play.
The final Test saw some tension as the match concluded controversially, with Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja declining England’s handshake offer with 15 overs remaining—the earliest a draw could have been accepted. Despite the circumstances, both batsmen aimed for personal glory, notching up impressive centuries and ensuring India avoided a loss, much to the frustration of England, whose captain Ben Stokes attempted to expedite the game with relaxed bowling changes.
Catch the fifth Test between England and India, live on Sky Sports Cricket from Thursday, with coverage starting at 10am ahead of the first ball at 11am.
England vs. India – Schedule and Results
All matches start at 11am UK and Ireland; broadcasting on Sky Sports