Big blow for the England cricket team ahead of the series-deciding fifth Test match at the Oval as their captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out of action due to injury.
England released their starting lineup on the eve of the final Test as Ollie Pope is all set to take charge of the team as their make-shift captain.
England have made four changes to their playing XI as Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes, Brydon Carse, and Liam Dawson have been excluded for the fifth Test. The four players made way for Josh Tongue, Jamie Overton, Gus Atkinson and Jacob Bethell.
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The news of Stokes' absence from the fifth Test comes only a day after reports emerged that Jasprit Bumrah will be rested by the Indian team management, after consultation with the BCCI's medical team.
Why is Ben Stokes missing the 5th Test vs India at the Oval?
Stokes addressed the media a day before the start of the fifth Test and opened the lid on the reason why he will be missing the all-important game.
The all-rounder said: "I am disappointed. Decent tear in the muscles I can't pronounce. I came down here this morning trying to find ways just to contribute with the batting. After discussions with the medical team, it was decided. The risk was way to much high. I wouldn't have expected anyone else in my place to risk this as well."
He added: "We're still able to fill the XI quite well and that's the benefit of having a good depth. We can win the match and the series."
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What next for England and India?
The two teams have only three days to recover and prepare for the fifth Test, where the outcome of the series will be decided. Day 1 of the fifth Test starts on Thursday, July 31.