India is facing a big challenge before the India vs England 4th Test 2025 at Old Trafford, Manchester. Two of their key fast bowlers, Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh, have suffered injuries that may keep them out of the match. To handle the crisis, selectors have called up Haryana pacer Anshul Kamboj as a backup for the final two Tests of the five-match series.
Arshdeep Singh hurt his bowling hand while fielding during a training session in Beckenham. Meanwhile, Akash Deep has a groin issue. Both bowlers were part of India’s pace strategy, especially with the series hanging in balance. The India vs England 4th Test 2025 is extremely important for both teams. A win for England will help them retain the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, while India needs a win to stay alive in the series.
India’s Fast Bowling Concerns Deepen
Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate had already hinted that Arshdeep’s injury could affect India’s game plan. Now, Akash Deep’s fitness concern has made things worse. Akash had played a big role in India’s win at Birmingham, where he picked up 10 wickets. However, in the third Test at Lord’s, he struggled and managed only one wicket.
During the practice session in Beckenham, Akash Deep didn’t bowl or bat. Instead, he was seen doing light fitness work under the supervision of India’s trainer Adrian Le Roux. Whether his injury is serious will be confirmed during a media interaction on Monday. Despite the uncertainty, both Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh have travelled to Manchester for the India vs England 4th Test 2025.
As for Arshdeep, the young pacer was eager to bowl a lot during practice. He was even heard joking about completing a week’s workload in one session. But shortly after, he had to walk off with his hand bandaged. It’s not clear if he required stitches, but his chances of playing in the India vs England 4th Test 2025 now look slim.
Bumrah’s Role Becomes Crucial
India is now in a tough spot. With two pacers likely out, the importance of Jasprit Bumrah grows. Ten Doeschate admitted India is “leaning towards” playing Bumrah in the India vs England 4th Test 2025. However, a final call will be taken based on pitch conditions, weather, and Bumrah’s own fitness.
Mohammed Siraj is the only Indian fast bowler who has played all three Tests in this series so far. He has bowled the most overs among the Indian quicks, and the team management will be careful about his workload. Prasidh Krishna, who played in the first two Tests, is another option. Shardul Thakur, who played the Leeds Test, can also provide depth with both bat and ball.
India’s growing injury list has pushed the selectors to look for fresh options. That’s where Anshul Kamboj comes in. The 24-year-old fast bowler was impressive during the India A tour of England. He picked up four wickets in a match against England Lions in Northampton and even contributed with the bat, sharing a 149-run unbeaten stand with Tanush Kotian. Kamboj is known for his ability to hit the deck hard and deliver skiddy pace, something that might be useful in Manchester during the India vs England 4th Test 2025.
England Lead Series 2-1
As the teams gear up for the India vs England 4th Test 2025, England hold a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Their last win at Lord’s came in a thrilling finish, with the hosts winning by just 22 runs in the final session. The win gave them a big advantage in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy battle.
India, on the other hand, need to bounce back hard. Injuries have disrupted their plans, but they still have depth and experience. With Bumrah potentially returning, and youngsters like Kamboj getting a chance, the India vs England 4th Test 2025 promises to be an exciting clash.
The match at Old Trafford, starting July 23, could decide the direction of the series. If India loses, they surrender the trophy. If they win, the final Test will turn into a high-stakes decider. For fans of both sides, the India vs England 4th Test 2025 is now one of the most awaited games of the season.
Whether it’s the return of Bumrah, the form of Gill and Pant, or the rise of new faces like Kamboj, the India vs England 4th Test 2025 could offer plenty of drama. With every session likely to swing the momentum, both teams will need to bring their A-game to Manchester.
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