India vs England: Gambhir’s Bold Moves See Karun Nair Back in XI for 5th Test

London: Trailing 1–2 in the five-match Test series against England, Team India is expected to ring in significant changes for the 5th and final Test at The Kennington Oval. With workload management set to keep pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah out, head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill are likely to make four changes in the XI as they aim to level the series.

⚡ Karun Nair’s Surprise Recall

According to an Indian Express report, Karun Nair is set to make a comeback after being dropped for the Manchester Test due to poor form. Nair’s inclusion is expected to come at the expense of all-rounder Shardul Thakur. Earlier, B Sai Sudharsan had replaced Nair in the 4th Test, but the team management is reportedly ready to trust the experienced batter again for the crucial decider.

🏏 Bumrah Likely Rested, Pacers Under Consideration

With Bumrah rested, Akash Deep is tipped to return to the side. Meanwhile, India faces a selection dilemma between Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna for the remaining pace slot. Both bowlers are being closely considered, though Prasidh appears to have a slight edge.

🌀 Spin Combination to Remain Unchanged

Despite calls for Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion, the management is expected to persist with the all-round spin duo of Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar. Their ability to contribute with the bat is seen as a decisive factor, keeping Kuldeep out once again.

📋 India’s Likely Playing XI for the 5th Test

♦ KL Rahul

♦ Yashasvi Jaiswal

♦ B Sai Sudharsan

♦ Shubman Gill (c)

♦ Karun Nair

♦ Dhruv Jurel (wk)

♦ Ravindra Jadeja

♦ Washington Sundar

♦ Akash Deep

♦ Prasidh Krishna

♦ Mohammed Siraj

🔑 Decider at the Oval

India will need to deliver a strong performance to avoid a series defeat. With bold calls like Karun Nair’s return and Bumrah’s absence, the Gambhir-Gill duo is banking on fresh energy and proven experience to counter England in the series finale.