Team India Grapples With Injury Crisis Ahead of 4th Test vs England – Four Players Injured, Selection Headache for Shubman Gill and Gautam Gambhir

With just days to go before the start of the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, Manchester, the Indian cricket team is facing a major setback. A string of injuries has struck the squad, complicating the task of finalizing the Playing XI for the high-stakes encounter starting July 23, 2025.

Injury Woes Mount: Four Key Players Sidelined

The injury list began with Rishabh Pant, who suffered a knock on Day 1 of the Lord’s Test. Following him, Akash Deep developed a troubling lower back issue that has limited his availability. The third blow came during a practice session, when Arshdeep Singh sustained a hand injury while attempting a catch in his follow-through — the impact was severe enough to require stitches.

Adding to the crisis, promising all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has now been officially ruled out of the remainder of the series. Reddy reportedly suffered a ligament tear in his knee while training in the gym. As a result, he will miss the final two Tests — a significant loss to the team’s balance.

Gautam Gambhir & Shubman Gill Face Selection Dilemma

The growing list of injuries has compounded the pressure on Head Coach Gautam Gambhir and stand-in captain Shubman Gill as they try to piece together a competitive Playing XI. Adding to the challenge, Jasprit Bumrah, who was originally scheduled to be rested for workload management, may now have to play in Manchester.

Bumrah has already played two of the three Tests in the series, and team management had considered handing a debut to Arshdeep Singh in the fourth Test. However, with Arshdeep now injured and Akash Deep also unavailable, the team has limited pace options.

Siraj Workload Also a Concern

Mohammed Siraj, who has bowled extensively in the first three Tests, was also in contention for rest. However, given the depleted pace resources, that now seems unlikely. His presence might become essential for maintaining India’s bowling strength alongside Bumrah.

To plug the gap left by Nitish Reddy, the team may turn to Shardul Thakur, who offers a similar all-round option. But the third seamer’s spot still remains uncertain.

Anshul Kamboj Likely to Be Drafted In

According to reports, Anshul Kamboj has been named as a cover in the squad. However, BCCI has yet to officially confirm his inclusion. If selected, Kamboj could make his debut under pressing circumstances.

Conclusion: A Real Test of Depth and Strategy

India’s growing injury list ahead of the Manchester Test poses serious strategic challenges. While the core bowling unit of Bumrah and Siraj is expected to lead the attack, the third pacer and all-rounder positions remain open-ended. The coming days will be crucial in terms of fitness updates and BCCI’s official squad decisions.

Disclaimer:
The above information is based on media reports and available sources. Squad selections, player fitness, and final decisions are subject to official confirmation from the BCCI. Readers are advised to follow verified updates from the Board and team management for the latest developments.