As the Indian team gears up for the fifth and final Test of the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England, preparations are in full swing at The Oval, where the high-stakes clash begins on July 31. With the series currently standing at 2-1 in England’s favour, India must win to level the series and avoid a disappointing defeat. However, Team India is dealing with multiple injury setbacks. Star pacer Jasprit Bumrah is likely to miss the game, while wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been ruled out due to a toe fracture. In response, the selectors have roped in Narayan Jagadeesan as a batting cover.
Amid these concerns, a familiar face returned to the Indian camp during their practice session — Deepak Chahar. The former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pacer, who has not featured in the Indian Test squad before, was seen training with the team, though not in official kit. TimesofIndia.com reporter Sahil Malhotra shared a video showing Chahar with the squad. Watch: The series has been a dramatic contest so far. England drew first blood with a five-wicket win in the opening Test, but India roared back with a stunning victory in the second match at Edgbaston. The hosts took the third Test, while the fourth ended in a gritty draw at Manchester. With the series hanging in the balance, both sides are feeling the pressure. England, led by Ollie Pope in Ben Stokes’ absence (shoulder injury), has named its playing XI, making four changes. Stokes, Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, and Liam Dawson are out, replaced by Jacob Bethell, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue, and Gus Atkinson. All eyes now turn to The Oval, where India, under Shubman Gill’s leadership, must fight to finish strong.England’s XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue
