Breaking News: Ben Stokes RULED OUT, England make four changes to playing 11 for The Oval test vs India

Ankitjit Singh is a Sub-Editor at Khel Now, known for his in-depth knowledge of cricket.

Published at :July 30, 2025 at 4:00 PM

Modified at :July 31, 2025 at 4:30 PM

Ben Stokes celebrates his 5-fer in Manchester test

(Courtesy : Getty Images)

Ben Stokes has been ruled of the last test between England and India due to a shoulder injury.

The England Cricket Team have announced their playing XI for the fifth test against the Indian Cricket Team. The hosts have faced a massive blow as skipper Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the game, which will take place at the Oval in London, starting on 31st July.

England have made four changes to their XI for the final test of the series. Apart from Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse and Liam Dawson won’t be featuring, in what will be the series decider. All these players have played a major role in the team being 2-1 ahead in the series.

In the absence of Ben Stokes, vice-captain Ollie Pope has been handed the responsibility to lead the team. The hosts have added Jacob Bethell, who will bat at No.6, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton and Josh Tongue to the side for the last game.

Releasing the official statement, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) stated:

“The England Men’s team has announced four changes to their XI for the Rothesay Fifth Test against India at the Kia Oval, starting on Thursday. Captain Ben Stokes is unavailable due to a right shoulder injury.“

“Also missing out are spinner Liam Dawson and pace bowlers Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse. England have included Jacob Bethell, who will bat at No.6. Surrey bowlers Gus Atkinson and Jamie Overton come into the side, along with Nottinghamshire quick Josh Tongue.”

England Playing XI For The Fifth Test Against India

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue

Ben Stokes ruled out – a huge blow for England

Ben Stokes folded finger — MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – JULY 26: Ben Stokes of England celebrates reaching his century during day four of the 4th Rothesay Test Match between England and India at Emirates Old Trafford on July 26, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

Ben Stokes missing out on the game will come as a massive blow for England and surely puts them on the back foot. He has been one of the best players going in the series and has contributed immensely with the bat and ball.

Stokes is the leading wicket-taker in the series with 17 wickets to his name. Also, with the bat, he has hammered 304 runs in the four games. His best came in the last game in Manchester, where he picked a fifer and slammed a ton.

Who will captain England in the absence of Ben Stokes for fifth test against India?

Ollie Pope will captain England in the absence of Ben Stokes for fifth test against India.

How many changes have England made to their playing XI for the fifth test?

England have made four changes to their XI for the fifth test.

Will Jofra Archer play fifth test against India?

Jofra Archer has been rested for the 5th test against India.

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Ankitjit Singh

Ankitjit Singh is a dedicated sports journalist whose childhood dream was to play cricket—now, he serves the game through his work. With over three years of experience in reporting, writing, and editing, he brings deep insight to his coverage. A journalism graduate from Delhi University, Ankitjit’s passion for cricket took root during his college days and continues to drive his career.