The Indian team is already concerned about wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant’s availability for the 4th Test against England.
Fresh Blow to India’s Fast Bowling Ahead of Fourth Test
Just three days before the start of the fourth Test of the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, India’s fast-bowling department has suffered a new setback. Amid growing concerns over Mohammed Siraj’s workload and uncertainty around Jasprit Bumrah’s participation in Manchester, Arshdeep Singh—yet to make his Test debut—is likely ruled out, while Akash Deep’s availability remains doubtful.
The left-arm fast bowler was struck on his bowling hand earlier this week in the nets while trying to stop a ball hit by Sai Sudharsan during his follow-through. According to a report in the Indian Express, Arshdeep required stitches on his hand.
“He has stitches on his hand and is likely not to be available for the fourth Test match. The Indian team will assess if he is ready for the fifth Test or not,” a source told the national daily.
The Indian team management has not yet included Arshdeep in the playing XI, but India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate hinted on Thursday that Arshdeep was in contention for selection in the Manchester Test amid ongoing discussions about Bumrah and Siraj. He said, “Arshdeep took a blow while bowling; Sai hit the ball, and he tried to stop it—it was just a cut. We have to see how bad the cut is. Obviously, the medical team took him to see a doctor, and whether he needs stitches or not will be important for our planning over the next few days.”
On the other hand, Akash Deep, who played a crucial role in India’s win in the second Test in Birmingham with a record 10-wicket match haul, including six wickets in the second innings, is doubtful for the fourth Test. The report added that “he is struggling with a groin niggle.” The fast bowler did not bowl in the training session the Indian team held before leaving for Manchester on Saturday.
Injury Concerns Mount for India Ahead of Fourth Test at Old Trafford
Akash Deep sustained an injury on Day 4 of the Lord’s Test when he left the field during the 28th over, clutching his waist in pain. The team physio assisted him, and although he returned to the field after treatment, he did not bowl for the remainder of the day.
Meanwhile, India’s worries have increased with wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant’s finger injury. Pant injured the index finger of his left hand while fielding during England’s first innings in the third Test. He was unable to continue wicketkeeping, with Dhruv Jurel taking over as substitute, but Pant did bat in both innings.
The fourth Test is scheduled to begin on July 23 at Old Trafford. After their loss at Lord’s, India face a must-win situation. However, their history at Manchester is challenging, having never won a Test at this venue in nine attempts—four losses and five draws so far.
