Ben Stokes has been ruled out of England’s final Test match against India at The Oval due to an injury. Despite battling through the last day of the fourth Test with a shoulder issue, Stokes will miss the upcoming match due to the quick turnaround. In his absence, Ollie Pope will lead the team, who currently lead the series 2-1. Jacob Bethell has been brought in as a replacement for Stokes, providing England with an additional seamer at the expense of Liam Dawson.
Bethell, usually a No.3, will now bat at No.6 in place of Stokes. England has made significant changes to their bowling attack, with only Chris Woakes retaining his place. Josh Tongue, Gus Atkinson, and Jamie Overton have been included for their first Tests of the series.
Stokes’ absence is a major setback for England, especially after his outstanding performance in the previous Test, where he scored a century and took five wickets. Stokes revealed he had a muscle tear that forced him to withdraw from the final Test after consulting with the medical team and coach Brendon McCullum.
The team dynamics have shifted with Stokes out and the rotation of the seam attack. Woakes now leads the bowling attack, with Tongue, Atkinson, and Overton also set to play crucial roles in the upcoming match. Despite the draw-friendly pitch at Old Trafford, the series has been captivating, featuring intense moments between the teams.
Controversy arose in the previous Test regarding England’s behavior on the final day and a video of India coach Gautam Gambhir arguing with the groundsman surfaced on Tuesday. The England XI for the fifth Test against India includes Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (captain), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, and Josh Tongue.