The fifth and final Test of India’s 2025 tour of England will be played on Thursday, July 31, at the Kennington Oval in London. With England leading the Test series 2-1, this is a great opportunity for India to level the series by winning the Test match. However, injuries to several players and workload management have given the Indian team a thought.
Key Absentees: Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah Out
India have suffered a major setback ahead of the Oval Test as Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the series due to a toe fracture. Dhruv Jurel will replace him as wicketkeeper. Jurel has looked good behind the stumps during this tour and also scores well with the bat.
Another important change has taken place in the bowling department, where Jasprit Bumrah is reported to be out due to workload management. Given his impact throughout the series, his absence will be a big void. However, Akash Deep, who impressed a lot with a ten-wicket haul at the start of the tour, could return to the team after recovering from a back injury.
Kuldeep Yadav to strengthen spin attack
India’s spin attack may see a new big spinner in the form of Kuldeep Yadav. With the Oval pitch dry and the spin being favored by the specialists, there is a good chance of him finally joining. Kuldeep’s ability to break partnerships and take wickets consistently makes him a special player in this decisive match.
Arshdeep Singh set for Test debut
One of the most talked about names is Arshdeep Singh, who has fully recovered from a thumb injury and has also been seen bowling in the nets. If reports are to be believed, Arshdeep could make his Test debut in place of Anshul Kamboj, who completely failed to make an impact in the last match.
India’s Probable Playing XI: India vs England
- KL Rahul
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Sai Sudarshan
- Shubman Gill (c)
- Dhruv Jurel (wk)
- Washington Sundar
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Akashdeep
- Mohammed Siraj
- Arshdeep Singh
Strategic changes and team balance
India are hoping for a better bowling performance after a disappointing performance in Manchester. The inclusion of three pacers – Siraj, Akashdeep and Arshdeep – along with two spinners in Jadeja and Kuldeep gives India a balanced attack suited to English conditions.
The batting unit looks strong, led by the in-form Shubman Gill, with KL Rahul and Jaiswal at the top, while there are experienced middle-order bowlers like Karun Nair and Jadeja.
Final Thoughts
This Test at the Oval is not just about levelling the series—it will also depend on character, strategy and execution. With so many new faces and changes due to injuries, India will hope the new players make the most of the opportunity and end the series on a high.
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