Arshdeep Singh is likely to miss the fourth Test match between India and England, scheduled to begin on July 23 in Manchester, due to a cut on his bowling hand. The 26-year-old left-arm pacer sustained the injury during a net session on Thursday while trying to stop a ball hit by Sai Sudharsan.
According to reports, Arshdeep Singh received stitches on his hand, making it unlikely that he will recover in time for the crucial fourth Test. A source told The Indian Express, "He has stitches on his hand and is likely won't be available for the fourth Test match. The Indian team will see if he is ready for the fifth Test or not".
India's assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, confirmed the injury, stating, "Arshdeep took a ball while he was bowling there, Sai hit a ball, and he tried to stop it, and it's just a cut. So we have to see how bad the cut is. Obviously, the medical team have taken him off to see a doctor, and obviously, if he needs stitches or doesn't need stitches, it's going to be important to our planning for the next few days".
Arshdeep Singh has not yet made his Test debut for India, but he was in contention for a spot in the playing XI for the fourth Test, especially if the team management decided to rest one of the pacers.
Adding to India's concerns, there is uncertainty surrounding the availability of another pacer, Akash Deep, who is reportedly struggling with a groin niggle. Akash Deep experienced discomfort and left the field on Day 4 of the third Test at Lord's. He has a history of injuries, having been sidelined during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2024 and the 2025 IPL season.
With both Arshdeep and Akash Deep potentially unavailable, the Indian team might need to make some adjustments to their bowling lineup. It is possible that Jasprit Bumrah, who took a five-wicket haul in the third Test, and Mohammed Siraj will lead the pace attack. Prasidh Krishna, who played in the series opener, could also be brought back into the playing XI.
In response to Arshdeep's injury, the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee has added Haryana fast bowler Anshul Kamboj to the Test squad as a cover. The 24-year-old was part of the India A side and has impressed with his speed and wicket-taking ability in first-class games.
The Indian team has already been dealing with injury concerns regarding wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, who was struck on his left index finger during the first innings of the Lord's Test.
