India Aims to Level Series Against England in Crucial Fourth Test
India's Challenge at Old Trafford
On Wednesday, July 23, Team India will take on England in the fourth Test of the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy 2025 at Old Trafford, Manchester. Currently, the Indian team, led by Shubman Gill, is behind in the five-match series with a score of 1-2 following their defeat at Lord's.
As they head to Old Trafford, India not only seeks to equalize the series but also aims to end an 89-year winless streak at this venue. In their last nine matches here, India has faced four losses and five draws, making it a particularly tough ground for them.
Injury Concerns for Team India
Ahead of the Manchester Test, Team India has been hit by injury woes. Nitish Kumar Reddy has been ruled out for the remainder of the series due to a knee injury sustained during a gym session in Beckenham. Additionally, Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep will also miss the fourth Test due to their respective injuries.
These setbacks are likely to prompt changes in the playing XI for the upcoming match.
Kuldeep Yadav's Potential Inclusion
Kuldeep Yadav, who last played a Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru in October 2024, is in contention for a spot in the playing XI for the Manchester Test. Reports suggest that he is being considered for selection following Reddy's injury.
However, including Kuldeep poses a challenge for the team management, as they are unlikely to drop either Ravindra Jadeja or Washington Sundar, both of whom have performed well in the previous Tests.
Given the conditions at Old Trafford, which are expected to favor spin as the match progresses, Kuldeep may be preferred over Shardul Thakur for the No. 8 position, leading to a potential three-spin attack to alleviate pressure on the pace bowlers.
Rishabh Pant Set to Keep Wickets
In a positive development, Rishabh Pant will be behind the stumps for the Manchester Test. There were doubts about his participation after he injured his left index finger during the Lord's Test, which led to Dhruv Jurel stepping in as a substitute.
Despite being sidelined from wicketkeeping duties, Pant managed to score 81 runs across both innings, including a commendable 74 in the second innings. Initially, there were indications that he might only play as a batter, but Shubman Gill confirmed his availability as wicketkeeper-batter for this crucial match.
Anshul Kamboj Poised for Debut
With Akash Deep out of the Manchester Test, Anshul Kamboj is likely to make his international debut, as hinted by Shubman Gill. Kamboj was included in the squad for the last two Tests of the series.
Gill praised Kamboj's skills, expressing confidence in his ability to contribute to the team's success. "We believe he can win matches for us. Kamboj is close to making his debut tomorrow," the Indian captain stated.
Karun Nair's Future in the Balance
Karun Nair has struggled to make an impact since his return to the Test team after an eight-year hiatus. His recent scores in the series have been disappointing, totaling 131 runs at an average of 21.83.
Given his inconsistent performances, the team management faces a tough decision on whether to retain him or bring back Sai Sudharsan, who was dropped after his debut Test. With the series at stake, they may opt to support experienced players like Nair rather than disrupt the batting order.
Predicted Playing XI for the Manchester Test
The anticipated lineup for India in the Manchester Test includes: KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Karun Nair, Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (VC/WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Anshul Kamboj, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj.