- July 30, 2025
Here we are—on the edge of another mouthwatering clash between India and England. The fifth Test is looming, and fans are already playing selector from their couches. With injuries, returns, and form juggling themselves into the spotlight, India has some serious thinking to do. Who plays? Who sits? And how do you balance attack with sustainability, especially when the pitch at The Oval throws in its curveballs? Let’s break down what India might—and should—change heading into this all-important final battle.
Bumrah’s Body vs India’s Boldness
Before a ball is bowled, the biggest debate isn’t about tactics—it’s about Bumrah. Let’s not forget, we’re talking about one of the finest fast bowlers in the world, but also someone whose back needs more protection than a royal family member. He’s not just another player on the team sheet—he’s the heartbeat of India’s pace attack. But with his history of stress injuries, there’s genuine concern: if he bowls too much now, are we risking losing him for an entire season (or worse)?
According to expert discussions, if Bumrah offers himself for selection, the call should be a joint one between medical staff and team management. The stakes are high—not just this Test, but Bumrah’s longevity. India might have to trust their bench strength and let him sit this one out unless he’s 100% physically and mentally ready.
Left Arm Temptation or Loyalty to Experience?
The debate of Arshdeep vs. Prasidh Krishna is heating up. Arshdeep provides left-arm variety in the bowling attack and impressive white-ball pace credentials; Prasidh has red-ball experience (albeit not much), but has been grinding away with the team for the entirety of the series. Arshdeep has a distinct “point of difference” — he trucks it back into right-handers and can disrupt a player’s rhythm early on in their innings, or a debutant for that matter.
Prasidh, meanwhile, hasn’t set the world alight in his appearances but offers bounce—a crucial asset at the traditionally lively Oval. The fair choice might be to trust the guy who’s been in the trenches all series. But don’t be shocked if team management pulls a wildcard. As one expert noted, it’s not just about names—it’s about how they’re bowling in the nets. If Arshdeep looks sharper, he might just leapfrog.
All-Round Balance: The Jadeja-Washington Factor
While the discussion focuses on bowling, there will always be a component of the discussion around all-rounders. Ravindra Jadeja is a lock-but not because of his left-arm spin- he has displayed time and time again with the bat that he can also bat in the top six when needed. So, he can be flexible to allow for an extra bowler without disrupting the batting order.
Washington Sundar has slipped back into the squad—and few suits foreign conditions better. His off-spin gives a different dimension, particularly against left-handed batters, and he’s not a complete nobody with the bat, either. If India wants six bowling options without upsetting the balance completely, these two players are an absolute must. Just think, three pace bowlers, Kuldeep Yadav as the wrist spinner, and these two all-rounders—suddenly, the team looks well-balanced, on paper and on the grass.
The fifth Test is not just a match but also a management question. Bumrah’s fitness, Arshdeep’s tempting variety, Prasidh’s earned spot, and the Jadeja-Washington all-rounder duo—all make India’s selection a tricky balancing act. The Oval will have decent bounce and carry, but India’s choices may likely prove the bigger challenge before a ball has been bowled.
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