IND vs ENG: India in Trouble! Arshdeep Ruled Out, Akash Deep in Doubt for Manchester Test
India hit by injuries as Arshdeep ruled out, Akash Deep doubtful for 4th Test vs England.
India’s injury woes in the England Test series continue as Arshdeep Singh is reportedly ruled out of the fourth Test in Manchester.
The left-arm seamer hurt his bowling hand during practice while stopping a straight drive from Sai Sudharsan.
He had to get stitches and, as per Indian Express, is unlikely to be fit in time for the match starting July 23.
Arshdeep was in contention to make his Test debut, especially if India rested one of Jasprit Bumrah or Mohammed Siraj.
But with this injury, his debut will have to wait.
Akash Deep also doubtful
It doesn’t end there. Akash Deep, who played a vital role in India’s win at Edgbaston, is also struggling with a groin injury. He didn’t bowl in the net sessions before India left for Manchester, raising doubts about his availability.
This double injury setback has left India’s pace options very thin ahead of a must-win match.
Bumrah to play, Siraj likely to continue
With Arshdeep and Akash Deep both likely out, the team is set to go back to its mainstay pacers.
Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested for the second Test, is expected to return. That also means Mohammed Siraj, despite playing all three Tests so far, won’t get any rest.
Assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate hinted that the team is leaning towards bringing Bumrah back for the Manchester game.
Also, Prasidh Krishna, who was dropped from the third Test, may return to the XI. This could be a last chance for him to make an impression in red-ball cricket, as his recent performances have been underwhelming.
India trail 1-2 in the five-match series and must win in Manchester to stay alive.
