The absence of Nitish Kumar Reddy due to a knee injury forces India to reconsider their preferred three-all-rounder combination. While Shardul Thakur could be a direct replacement, his inconsistency with both bat and ball may push the team towards a more specialist-heavy line-up. This could bring Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair into the playing XI, while Ravindra Jadeja could serve as the lone spinner.
There are also concerns in the pace department, with Akash Deep doubtful due to a groin issue. Uncapped Anshul Kamboj, who impressed in training and the India A tour, could debut alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Rishabh Pant is expected to be fit again, while KL Rahul and Jadeja remain vital.
England, confident from their Lord’s triumph, have named Liam Dawson in place of injured spinner Shoaib Bashir. With rain predicted in Manchester and seam-friendly conditions expected, the match is likely to favour the quicker bowlers.
With tempers running high and every match going to the wire, this Test promises high drama. As Harry Brook put it, “It’s been an amazing series,” and the Old Trafford Test could prove to be its defining chapter.
