Last Test, Last Twists: Stokes & Bumrah Miss The Oval Clash
The much-awaited 5th and final Test between England and India at The Oval has been rocked by major team changes. Both sides will be missing their star players — Ben Stokes for England and Jasprit Bumrah for India. The series decider, scheduled for July 31, 2025, now carries a completely different flavor as fresh faces step into high-pressure roles.
Ben Stokes Ruled Out, Ollie Pope to Captain
England’s Test talisman Ben Stokes has been ruled out, alongside Dawson, Archer, and Carse. This leaves England without its emotional leader and one of its best all-rounders. In his absence, Ollie Pope will captain the side.
Three players have been called in:
- Jacob Bethell
- Gus Atkinson
- Jamie Overton
The new-look England XI for The Oval includes:
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Ollie Pope (c)
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Jacob Bethell
- Jamie Smith (wk)
- Chris Woakes
- Gus Atkinson
- Jamie Overton
- Josh Tongue
Bumrah Also Sidelined, Akash Deep Steps In
On the Indian side, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah will also miss the final Test. The decision was expected, as Bumrah had earlier hinted that he would not play all five Tests due to fitness management.
In his place, Akash Deep will return to the playing XI. The young fast bowler impressed earlier in the series and will now be tasked with delivering in a high-stakes match.
Jofra Archer Misses Out Too
Adding to England’s concerns, Jofra Archer, has also been ruled out. Archer’s comeback has been carefully managed, but injury concerns have kept him on the sideline.
Series Context: England Lead 2-1
England currently lead the five-match series 2-1. After early setback, India bounced back in the 2nd Test, but a dominant England side responded with a strong win to retake control. Now, the equation is simple: India must win to draw the series 2-2. England need just a draw to seal the series 2-1 — or a win to make it 3-1.
With both teams missing key players, the final match could go either way. All eyes will be on how India handle the pressure without Bumrah and whether Ollie Pope can lead England to a memorable series win at The Oval.
Also read this : https://cric92.com/blogs/india-pulls-out-of-semi-final-pakistan-marches-into-wcl-final/