Ben Stokes Ruled Out, Archer Axed; England Make 4 Changes For 5th Test Vs India

Ben Stokes won't play 5th Test vs IND [Source: AFP]

In a significant development, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced a revamped playing XI for the fifth Test against India. The hosts have made four changes to their combination from the last game, with skipper Ben Stokes missing out on selection due to a shoulder injury. 

Stokes Out With Injury; England Rope In Atkinson, Bethell For Oval Clash

In the absence of Stokes, the hosts have announced Ollie Pope as their captain for the decider at Kennington Oval. Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse and Liam Dawson have also been dropped, with Jacob Bethell, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton and Josh Tongue returning to the playing XI. 

This gives Ollie Pope a once in a lifetime opportunity to lead the Three Lions at his home ground. Meanwhile, Jacob Bethell, who plays for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League, will bat in the middle order and chip in with a few overs of spin with the old ball. 

Veteran all-rounder Chris Woakes will yet again spearhead England's pace battery, which also comprises Tongue, Atkinson and Overton. Although England's bowling department has been weakened due to the absence of Archer and Stokes, they still have enough firepower in their batting, as all these bowlers can contribute handsomely to the scoreboard in the lower middle order. 

The hosts don't have a designated spin bowler; so, Bethell and Joe Root will roll their arms if the situation demands. Meanwhile, Crawley, Duckett, Brook and Jamie Smith have retained their spots and are expected to form England's batting core in the decider. 

England's Playing XI For 5th Test vs India

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (C), ⁠Joe Root, ⁠Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, ⁠Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue

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