The India vs England 4th Test faces a significant change with Akash Deep ruled out due to a lingering groin injury. India now face a crucial decision between Anshul Kamboj and Prasidh Krishna to fill the vacant fast-bowling slot at Old Trafford.
Akash Deep Injury Forces Late Selection Dilemma
India captain Shubman Gill confirmed Akash Deep’s unavailability for the Manchester Test. Though he bowled lightly during training, he could not return to full intensity in the nets. As a result, the team must decide between debutant Anshul Kamboj or Prasidh Krishna. This development adds complexity to India’s bowling attack in the India vs England 4th Test.
Breaking News 🚨
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) July 22, 2025
Shubman Gill has officially confirmed that Akash Deep will miss the fourth Test against England. Big setback for Team India as they chase a comeback in the series. 🏏#Cricket #AkashDeep #ENGvIND #WicketBuzz pic.twitter.com/08nzPDmTtl
Kamboj Close to Debut, Prasidh Brings Experience
Anshul Kamboj is reportedly close to earning his first cap. His seam movement mirrors Akash’s style, offering a like-for-like replacement. On the other hand, Prasidh Krishna brings more bounce due to his height but has struggled with consistency—averaging 55.16 and conceding runs at 5.33 per over in the series so far.
Kamboj’s batting skills could also influence the selection. With a strike rate of over 73 and 22 sixes in 24 matches, he adds depth. In contrast, Prasidh averages just 8.6 with the bat in first-class cricket.
Sudharsan Likely to Replace Reddy in Middle Order
In addition to Akash’s absence, Nitish Kumar Reddy has been ruled out of the India vs England 4th Test with a knee injury. India will likely bring in specialist batter B Sai Sudharsan. The choice between Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur for the allrounder spot may depend on pitch conditions.
Conditions in Manchester appeared drier earlier in the week. However, continued rain could make the pitch friendlier for seamers. According to Gill, Old Trafford traditionally offers more pace and bounce compared to other venues.
Karun Nair’s Form Under Scrutiny Ahead of 4th Test
Karun Nair’s place in the middle order remains stable despite not passing fifty in the series. The team still believes in his potential to turn things around during this pivotal India vs England 4th Test.
Shubman Gill also confirmed that Rishabh Pant has recovered from his finger injury and is fit to keep wicket again, providing a boost to India’s balance.
Karun Nair is set for a comeback with Karnataka in the upcoming domestic season 🔙💪
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) July 20, 2025
📸 Getty #KarunNair #KarnatakaCricket #DomesticSeason #IndianCricket #ComebackAlert #RanjiTrophy #WicketBuzz pic.twitter.com/bNzGNYJHPI
Probable India Playing XI – India vs England 4th Test
- KL Rahul
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Karun Nair
- Shubman Gill (C)
- Rishabh Pant (VC & WK)
- B Sai Sudharsan
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Washington Sundar / Shardul Thakur
- Anshul Kamboj / Prasidh Krishna
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
