The fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy between India and England commences today at The Oval in London, with India aiming to level the series. Amidst changes to the playing XI, Karun Nair is set to get another opportunity, while Jasprit Bumrah will be rested.
After inconsistent performances in the first three matches, where he scored only 131 runs at an average of 21.83, Nair was dropped for the fourth Test. However, with India aiming to bolster their batting line-up, Nair is likely to replace Shardul Thakur, who wasn't particularly effective in the previous Test at Manchester. This marks a significant moment for Nair, potentially his last chance to solidify his place in the Indian squad.
The rationale behind including Nair is Shardul Thakur's lackluster bowling performance. Since Thakur wasn't too effective in Manchester, India considered adding a pure batsman to strengthen their batting ranks in London. Former India Test opener Aakash Chopra had suggested that Nair could be recalled to India's playing XI for the fifth and final Test against England.
In the pace department, Jasprit Bumrah is expected to be rested. Bumrah was only slated to participate in three of the five matches in the series. After bowling a significant 33 overs in the fourth Test at Manchester, the decision to rest Bumrah is a precautionary measure to manage his workload, considering the busy schedule ahead. Anshul Kamboj is also expected to be left out. Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna are likely to take on the pace responsibilities, with Mohammed Siraj leading the attack as the most experienced pacer in the XI.
England has already announced their playing XI, with four changes from the side that played in the fourth Test. Ben Stokes will be absent due to a shoulder injury, a significant blow to the team. Ollie Pope will captain the side in Stokes' absence.
The pitch at The Oval has a layer of grass, which might have influenced India's decision to strengthen their batting line-up. There is also a forecast of rain on the opening day, which could affect the match. Former England captain Nasser Hussain noted the overcast conditions and the presence of 8mm of grass on the pitch, suggesting that the captain winning the toss should opt to bowl.
India trails 1-2 in the series and aims to draw level. A draw would be a significant achievement for the visitors. In the fourth Test, centuries from Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar secured a dramatic draw for India. India's resilience in the Manchester Test has boosted their confidence. England's bowlers appeared fatigued as Jadeja and Sundar batted towards their hundreds in the final session.
The final XI for India will be confirmed at the toss. Dhruv Jurel will take over wicketkeeping duties after Rishabh Pant was ruled out due to a fractured foot.
