Akash Deep Ruled Out of England vs India 4th Test: Shubman Gill Confirms Bowling Shake-Up at Old Trafford

India’s pace department faces another setback as Akash Deep is ruled out of the England vs India 4th Test due to a groin injury. Captain Shubman Gill now has a crucial decision to make between debutant hopeful Anshul Kamboj and the experienced Prasidh Krishna ahead of the Old Trafford clash.

India Suffers Another Blow as Akash Deep Misses 4th Test Against England

The Indian cricket team has been dealt a significant blow ahead of the England vs India 4th Test at Old Trafford, Manchester, as Akash Deep has officially been ruled out due to a groin injury. Captain Shubman Gill confirmed the development during the pre-match press interaction, highlighting a crucial decision the management now faces to fill the fast-bowling void.

Akash sustained the injury during the second Test at Lord’s—not in the nets, but while bowling into Morne Morkel’s mitt two days before the match. Although initially expected to recover in time, his rehabilitation has not progressed quickly enough to feature in the penultimate clash of the five-match series. “He’s not fully fit yet,” said Gill. “We were hoping he would make it, but unfortunately, he’s not ready for this game.”

India’s Dilemma: Kamboj or Prasidh?

With Jasprit Bumrah playing his final match of the series—India had planned to play him in only three Tests—the team is now weighing its options between Prasidh Krishna and the uncapped Anshul Kamboj.

Kamboj offers a like-for-like replacement for Akash, thanks to his ability to generate seam movement. However, Prasidh, the taller of the two, brings bounce into play but hasn’t impressed with the ball in the series so far, averaging 55.16 and leaking runs at 5.33 per over. “He [Kamboj] is very close to making his debut,” Gill said. “We’ll take the final call tomorrow. Both options are on the table.”

Kamboj’s additional batting utility might tip the scales in his favor. In first-class cricket, he strikes at 73.08 and has smashed 22 sixes in 24 games, with a batting average of 16.20—significantly better than Prasidh, who averages just 8.6 with the bat.

Injuries Continue to Plague India

Akash Deep’s absence adds to India’s growing injury list. All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who missed the last two Tests due to a knee injury, has been ruled out for the remainder of the series. While Akash is expected to be available for the final Test at The Oval, Reddy’s return is off the cards.

India is likely to replace Reddy with a pure batter—B Sai Sudharsan—freeing up the opportunity to pick between Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur based on the pitch and weather.

Gill Breaks Down the Pitch and Selection Calls

With rain forecasted in Manchester, conditions are expected to aid seamers. While the pitch didn’t appear too damp at first glance, continued drizzle might change that. “When I saw the wicket yesterday, it didn’t look that damp,” Gill said. “But with the forecast, I think there’ll be a bit more for bowlers. Old Trafford usually offers more pace and bounce.”

Gill also showed support for Karun Nair, whose position could change depending on Sudharsan’s selection. Nair has yet to make a half-century in the series but continues to have the team’s backing. “He’s batting well,” Gill added. “Sometimes it’s just about that one knock to get your confidence back. We’re hopeful he’ll come good.”

India’s Predicted Playing XI – 4th Test at Manchester

As the England vs India 4th Test looms, India’s team management faces multiple selection challenges, especially in the bowling department. The unavailability of Akash Deep forces a tactical rethink, and fans will keenly await the final XI announcement on match day. Regardless of the changes, one thing is certain—India is backing every squad member to rise to the occasion, and Shubman Gill’s confidence in the team’s depth is palpable.

Read More: Jasprit Bumrah Confirmed to Play the Fourth Test as Rishabh Pant Has Recovered form Finger Injury

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