The thrilling conclusion to the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series is fast approaching, with the fifth Test between India and England set to be a nail-biter at The Oval on Thursday, July 31. Following India’s spirited performance in Manchester, the series is delicately poised, and the team will be looking to level the score at 2-2. Team management is considering strategic adjustments to the playing XI for this crucial encounter. One key aspect is Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness; his availability is still uncertain, despite the pacer’s reported willingness to play through pain. Fortunately, a strong batting display in the second innings gave Bumrah some respite. Head coach Gautam Gambhir has indicated that all the pacers are match-fit, potentially allowing Bumrah, along with Mohammed Siraj and the recovered Akash Deep, to play. Debutant Anshul Kamboj, who had a less successful outing in Manchester, may be sidelined for the decisive match. Another possible alteration could involve the return of Kuldeep Yadav, who has not yet featured in the series. The Oval pitch is historically spin-friendly, offering an average of 27.72 for spinners over the past decade, making it the best in England during that time, with 80 wickets taken in 10 Tests (minimum five Tests played). Given the expected bounce and turn at the Oval, Kuldeep Yadav is reportedly under strong consideration for selection. The team will also have to decide whether to stick with Shardul Thakur for his all-round abilities or strengthen the spin department with Kuldeep’s inclusion. With the series hanging in the balance, the decisions made by India’s selection committee will be critical to the outcome at The Oval.
