In a major boost for Team India ahead of the fifth and final Test against England at The Oval, left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh has been declared fit and is all set to make his Test debut on July 31. After missing the fourth Test due to a hand injury that required stitches, Arshdeep returned to full rhythm during India’s practice sessions, impressing selectors with his control and aggression.
Why Arshdeep’s Debut Matters
- Fresh Left-Arm Option: Arshdeep brings a rare left-arm angle to India’s pace attack, offering swing with the new ball and deceptive short deliveries.
- Red-Ball Credentials: With 66 wickets in 21 first-class matches, including a successful County stint with Kent, he’s no stranger to English conditions.
- T20 Star Turned Test Hopeful: India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is (99 wickets), Arshdeep was a standout performer in the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup.
Team India’s Bowling Shake-Up
With the series on the line, India is expected to revamp its bowling unit:
- Anshul Kamboj, who had a forgettable debut in Manchester, is likely to be dropped.
- Shardul Thakur’s limited impact (just 11 overs bowled in a 669-run innings) puts his spot in jeopardy.
- Akash Deep, returning from a groin injury, may join Arshdeep and Mohammed Siraj in the pace trio.
- Jasprit Bumrah’s participation remains uncertain, as India had planned to play him in only three of the five Tests.
Coach’s Confidence
Arshdeep’s childhood coach Jaswant Rai expressed strong support for his protege:
“He is ripe now. He deserves the Test cap. If not in England, then where?”
Match Details
- Fixture: 5th Test – India vs England
- Venue: The Oval, London
- Date: July 31, 2025
- Series Status: England leads 2-1
