London, July 30, 2025 – England have suffered a major blow ahead of the fifth and final Test against India at the Oval, with star all-rounder Ben Stokes ruled out due to a serious shoulder injury.
The match, set to be played at the historic Oval, will now see Ollie Pope leading the side as stand-in captain.
Stokes, who played a heroic role in the fourth Test by taking five wickets and scoring a magnificent 141, sustained the injury to his right shoulder during fielding. Despite earlier suggesting he might recover in time, medical assessments confirmed a significant tear, making participation too risky.
“I’m obviously disappointed,” Stokes said. “I’ve got a decent tear in the right shoulder. Weighing up the risk and reward, the risk was way too high for the damage caused.”
The fifth Test at the Oval is crucial, with England holding a narrow 2-1 lead over India in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Both teams remain in contention for the World Test Championship final, adding extra weight to the series finale.
In response to Stokes’ absence and the toll of over 250 overs bowled in Manchester, England have overhauled their bowling attack. Chris Woakes is the only seamer retained from the previous match. Jofra Archer, Liam Dawson, and Brydon Carse have been left out, making way for Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue, and Jacob Bethell.
Atkinson returns after a hamstring injury, while Tongue is back following his earlier appearances in the series. Bethell replaces Dawson as the lead spinner, supported by Joe Root. Jamie Overton also returns to the XI after being added to the squad post the fourth Test.
England XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (C), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue.
With the Oval Test promising high drama, India will look to level the series, while England aim to clinch it despite missing their inspirational leader, Stokes.