“IND vs ENG 5th Test: If Not Stokes, Then Who? England’s Captaincy Debate”

IND vs ENG 5th Test: England have suffered a big blow ahead of the fifth and final Test against India as captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out due to a right shoulder injury. Stokes is easily the most important player for the hosts and has performed exceedingly well with both bat and ball. His absence will hurt England’s chances to level the series.

The last Test will begin on Thursday, July 31, at The Oval in London and England are currently leading the five-match series 2-1. The fourth Test in Manchester ended in a draw and India will be aiming to level the series. The visitors were struggling for most part of the fourth Test but managed to draw the match after an exceptional batting performance.

Who Will Be England New Test Captain?

Ben Stokes has been one of England’s best players in the series. The England Test captain has taken 17 wickets in four Tests, the most by any bowler so far. He also scored 304 runs, including a brilliant century in Manchester. He picked up a five-wicket haul and scored a hundred in the same match, showing his all-round ability.

Shortlist of Likely Captain Candidates:

1. Joe Root – Former Test captain with extensive leadership experience. A natural choice if England wants stability and calm leadership.

2. Ollie Pope – Named vice-captain in recent series but is currently recovering from injury; availability uncertain.

3. Zak Crawley – Emerging as a dependable top-order batter and a calm on-field presence; could be handed leadership as a future investment.

4. Ben Foakes – If England wants a steady, no-nonsense option with game-reading skills behind the stumps.

5. Chris Woakes – One of the most experienced players in the side, with excellent leadership qualities, especially in home conditions.

   England Playing 11 for 5th Test

   With Ben Stokes out, a lot will depend on experienced players like Joe Root and Chris Woakes. Bethell’s spin will also be tested in Dawson’s absence. Overall, the bowling attack is new and it remains to be seen how they perform under a new captain.
   Here is England’s XI for the final Test:

   IND vs ENG 5th Test : playing xi

   • Zak Crawley
   • Ben Duckett
   • Ollie Pope (captain)
   • Joe Root
   • Harry Brook
   • Jacob Bethell
   • Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper)
   • Chris Woakes
   • Gus Atkinson
   • Jamie Overton
   • Josh Tongue
     

     Conclusion

     England will head into the 5th Test without their talisman, Ben Stokes, which leaves a big void in both leadership and performance. While they still have quality in their ranks, India will sense an opportunity to strike and level the series. All eyes will now be on how England’s new-look side responds under pressure — and under new leadership.

     Also Read-“India vs England 5th Test: Probable Playing XI,Bumrah Out, Arshdeep In?”