India Vs England 5thTest: Bumrah’s Reintegration and Rahul’s Status
India’s bowling attack received a boost as Jasprit Bumrah rejoined the squad for the final Test against England, while KL Rahul’s injury woes continued to keep him sidelined. Washington Sundar, meanwhile, departed the national team to focus on his domestic commitments.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a revamped Indian squad for the decisive fifth Test against England in Dharamsala. This revision saw the much-anticipated return of pace maestro Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested for the previous encounter in Ranchi. The fiery fast bowler is poised for a direct insertion into the playing eleven, potentially replacing Akash Deep, who made a promising debut in the fourth Test.
In a statement, the BCCI confirmed Jasprit Bumrah’s return to the fold for the fifth Test. “Bumrah, who was rested during the Ranchi Test, will rejoin the squad in Dharamsala,”
KL Rahul Ruled Out Yet Again
According to reports, KL Rahul’s absence from the final Test was confirmed. Presently, he is in London under the care of specialists, focusing on treating his right quad injury, which sidelined him for the last three Tests against England.
“KL Rahul, whose availability for the final Test hinged on his fitness, has been officially ruled out of the fifth and ultimate Test in Dharamsala,” stated the BCCI. “The BCCI Medical Team is closely overseeing his condition and collaborating with specialists in London for further treatment.”
Rajat Patidar’s Struggles and Padikkal’s Opportunity
Rajat Patidar occupied the No. 4 batting position in the previous three Tests during Rahul’s absence. However, his lackluster performance across six innings, with a highest score of 32 and two ducks, suggests a potential opportunity for Devdutt Padikkal. The tall left-hander is poised to become the fifth debutant for India in the ongoing series, following Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel, and Akash Deep.
Washington Sundar Departs National Squad
Off-spinning all-rounder Washington Sundar has been granted permission to join the Ranji Trophy semi-final, thereby stepping away from the national squad. Despite his absence, his chances of selection were slim, given the formidable presence of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav in the team.
India’s Playing 11 for the 5th Test
Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), Devdutt Padikkal, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep.
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