Ben Stokes will miss the fifth and final Test against India in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025. The English captain is recovering from a shoulder injury. In Stokes’ absence, Ollie Pope will lead England in the series finale.
England (Wednesday, July 30) England announced its playing XI one day prior to the 5th Test at The Oval in London. Other than Stokes, Jofra Archer, Liam Dawson and Brydon Carse will not be present in the fifth Test.
Stokes stated that he was eager to play the match as a specialist batter. However, following a medical evaluation, he realized that it would be too dangerous. The star all-rounder bowled long stints, particularly in the latter two games. Stokes bowled 35 overs in both innings of the third Test at Lord’s and was observed gripping his right shoulder throughout the period.
“Disappointed. A 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 too high. I wouldn’t have expected anyone else in my place to risk this as well,” Stokes said in the pre-match press conference.
‘One Man Doesn’t Win or Lose You a Game’ – Ben Stokes
Ben Stokes trusted his team members to complete the work and win the series even when he was not present at The Oval. All will get their chance to play under the Three Lions brand with Jacob Bethell, Josh Tongue, Gus Atkinson, and Jamie Overton all having chances to play in this high-profile game.
“One man doesn’t win or lose you a game. Whether I’m playing or not it doesn’t mean we’ll win or lose. There are other players who are capable.”
Ben Stokes
India is trailing 1-2 in the five-match series. Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar, and Ravindra Jadeja each scored hundred in the second innings to help them draw the most recent Test. Shubman Gill and his team will try to put the hosts, who will now be captained by Pope, on the back foot.
