India's injury concerns deepen ahead of Manchester Test
Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah
On the eve of the fourth Test against England in Manchester, Indian captain Shubman Gill confirmed that fast bowler Akash Deep has been ruled out due to injury.
His absence adds to India’s growing injury concerns, with Arshdeep Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy already sidelined.
Bumrah to miss final Test against England
30 Jul 25
“It’s always tough when injuries disrupt the squad,” Gill said during the pre-match press conference.
“Nitish is out for the entire series. Akash Deep won’t be available for the next match, and Arshdeep is also sidelined. But we’re confident in the depth of our team — taking 20 wickets has been the biggest challenge, and we’re focused on that. It’s not ideal to keep changing bowlers, but I was ready for that situation.”
Earlier in the week, India brought in uncapped pacer Anshul Kamboj as a replacement for Nitish, who was ruled out of the series with a knee injury. Gill expressed confidence in the newcomer.
“We’ve seen enough of Anshul to know what he offers. His skillset aligns perfectly with what we need, and we believe he has the potential to win games for us,” Gill said.
“Even when Akash Deep was selected for the second Test, there were questions. But our confidence in every squad member remains strong — anyone can step up and deliver when needed.”
Women's World Cup games moved out of Bengaluru months after tragedy
22 Aug 25
Meanwhile, India's Mohammed Siraj expects fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah to feature in the vital fourth Test.
Bumrah, the world's top-ranked Test bowler, is only slated to play three of the five matches against England as he battles a back injury.
He has already featured in India's defeats at Headingley and Lord's, leaving the tourists 2-1 down in the series.
Siraj believes Bumrah will feature in Manchester on Wednesday rather than hold him back for next week's final Test at The Oval.
"So far, we only know that Jassi (Bumrah) will play," Siraj said on Monday.
