India’s hopes of squaring the Test series against England have taken a major blow with pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah likely to miss the fifth and final Test at The Oval, as per advice from the BCCI medical team. His absence leaves a significant void in the bowling attack, and India could turn to Akash Deep, who missed the fourth Test in Manchester due to a groin issue, to fill the gap.

There’s also a possibility that left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh could make his Test debut. Arshdeep, a regular in India’s white-ball setup, could provide variety with his angle and swing. If he plays, the onus of leading the attack will again fall on Mohammed Siraj, who has featured in all four Tests so far.

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Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has strongly advocated for the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, especially in Bumrah’s absence. Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, Manjrekar emphasized the need for a bowling unit capable of taking 20 wickets. “India has reached this point in the series despite some questionable tactics and selections. With Bumrah missing, they must bring in a genuine wicket-taker like Kuldeep,” he said.

Manjrekar further added that India can afford to go with an extra bowler considering the strong batting form of all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar. “There’s no need for a specialist batter at the moment. Jadeja and Sundar provide enough depth. Shardul can be rested, and Kuldeep must return,” he suggested.

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Meanwhile, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak remained tight-lipped on Kuldeep’s selection, stating that the final playing XI will be decided after discussions between captain Shubman Gill and coach Gautam Gambhir. “That decision will be made tomorrow. It’s not my place to confirm anything now,” Kotak said during a pre-match press conference.