Why is Captain Stokes Missing the Final Test?
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Synopsis
Captain Ben Stokes' absence from England's crucial fifth Test against India is a significant blow. With a 2-1 series lead, England has made four strategic changes to their lineup at The Oval. Discover how these adjustments could impact the match and what lies ahead for Stokes.
Key Takeaways
- Ben Stokes ruled out due to a shoulder injury.
- Ollie Pope steps in as captain.
- England makes four changes to the playing XI.
- Team leads the series 2-1.
- Match starts Thursday at The Oval.
London, July 30 (NationPress) Captain Ben Stokes has been sidelined for England’s fifth Test against India due to a shoulder injury. As the series heads into a critical match at The Oval starting Thursday, England has made four changes to their playing eleven, currently leading the five-match series 2-1.
In Stokes' absence, Ollie Pope will assume the captaincy role. Other notable omissions include left-arm spinner Liam Dawson and pace bowlers Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse.
England welcomes Jacob Bethell, who will bat at number six, alongside new pacers Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, and Josh Tongue, bringing a fresh dynamic to their fast-bowling lineup led by Chris Woakes.
Atkinson, Pope, Smith, and Overton are familiar with The Oval, their home ground from domestic cricket with Surrey. Bethell will join Joe Root in sharing spin responsibilities.
During the fourth Test at Old Trafford, Stokes was often seen holding his right shoulder, having bowled an unprecedented number of Test overs. "I am obviously disappointed. There is a bit of emotion that goes into this stuff when you find out what you have done. I came down here this morning to give myself every chance to play just as a batter," explained Stokes.
“I think you need that time chatting with the medical team, Baz (head coach Brendon McCullum), then 20 minutes with myself to really be clear around the decision that we made. It is one of those weighing up the risk and reward, and the risk was way too high for the damage.
"I wouldn't expect to put any of my players at risk with an injury like this, so I will start rehabbing now and focus on what we have coming up in the winter. Once the series was done, I was feet up anyway, so it doesn't make too much difference from what I had at the end of the series until the winter anyway," Stokes stated during a press conference on Wednesday.
England’s playing XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, and Josh Tongue
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight the challenges England faces without their captain in such a pivotal match. Stokes' leadership and experience are invaluable, and his absence could shift the dynamics of a closely contested series. The changes to the squad reflect a strategic response to maintain their competitive edge against a formidable Indian side.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Ben Stokes' injury?
Ben Stokes sustained a shoulder injury after bowling an extensive number of overs during the fourth Test at Old Trafford.
Who will captain England in Stokes' absence?
Ollie Pope has been appointed as the captain for the final Test against India.
What are the changes made to the England playing eleven?
England has made four changes, bringing in Jacob Bethell, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, and Josh Tongue.
How is the series currently standing?
England leads the five-match series 2-1 going into the final Test.
What is the location of the final Test?
The final Test will take place at The Oval in London.
