Ben Stokes injury has dealt a major blow to England ahead of the final Test against India at The Oval. The dynamic all-rounder has been ruled out due to a shoulder issue, prompting four changes to the playing XI as the hosts aim to seal the series, which they currently lead 2-1.
What Happened to Ben Stokes?
Stokes picked up the injury during the final day of the fourth Test in Manchester. He had been battling both shoulder and hamstring problems throughout the match, and the England management has now confirmed that he won’t feature in the fifth Test, starting July 31.
In his absence, Ollie Pope will lead the English side at The Oval.
Full List of England’s Changes
Alongside Ben Stokes injury, England have rested key bowlers Jofra Archer, Liam Dawson, and Brydon Carse. Replacing them in the squad are:
- Jacob Bethell (replaces Dawson – will bat at No. 6 and act as main spinner)
- Gus Atkinson
- Jamie Overton
- Josh Tongue
According to an official statement from the England team:
“Captain Ben Stokes is unavailable due to a right shoulder injury. Spinner Liam Dawson and pace bowlers Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse are also out. Jacob Bethell, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, and Josh Tongue have been added to the XI for the Rothesay Fifth Test at Kia Oval.”
A Big Hole to Fill in Stokes’ Absence
Ben Stokes injury couldn’t have come at a worse time. The England skipper has been in superb form throughout the series. In just four matches, he has:
- Scored 304 runs, including a century in Manchester
- Taken 17 wickets, making him the leading wicket-taker in the series
His all-round performance was pivotal in England’s victories, and his absence will undoubtedly test the team’s depth.
Can the Replacements Step Up?
Jacob Bethell takes over the spinning duties, marking a significant moment in his budding career. Meanwhile, Atkinson, who last played a Test against Zimbabwe earlier this year, returns from injury.
Josh Tongue, who featured in the first two matches, is back, while Jamie Overton adds extra firepower to the pace attack.
Here’s the full England Playing XI for the Oval Test:
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Ollie Pope (captain)
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Jacob Bethell
- Jamie Smith (wk)
- Chris Woakes
- Gus Atkinson
- Jamie Overton
- Josh Tongue
What’s at Stake in the Final Test?
Image Suggestion: Wide shot of The Oval before the match
Alt Tag: Oval stadium before final Test between India and England
England lead the series 2-1. A win or draw in this final Test would secure them a series win, while a loss would mean a shared result. With Ben Stokes injury ruling him out, England’s leadership and bowling dynamics will be tested under pressure.
India, on the other hand, will be eager to exploit the weakened English lineup and level the series.
Final Thoughts
The Ben Stokes injury has changed the complexion of the Oval Test. While England have introduced fresh talent to fill the void, the absence of their skipper could have a major psychological and tactical impact.
As both teams gear up for a crucial finale, all eyes will be on how England’s revamped squad performs—and whether India can capitalise on this golden opportunity.
