Predicting India’s Playing XI for 5th Test against England

In this article, we will discuss IND vs ENG: Predicting India’s Playing XI for the 5th Test against England. The Indian team after agonizingly losing the first Test in Hyderabad, has made a roaring return in the series to clinch it with a Test left to be played. The home team has already taken a 3-1 lead in the series but there is still a lot to fight for. Important World Test Championship points will be at stake and India cannot afford to approach the Dharamsala Test lightly. Let us take a look at the probable playing XI for India in the 5th Test. 

Top Order

The Indian top order has been impressive in this series. Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has been a revelation for India. He is the top run scorer in the series with 655 runs to his name. The left-hander will be eager to breach the 700-run mark. Captain Rohit Sharma has also contributed whenever his team needed him. These two will be laying the foundation for India in testing conditions at Dharamsala. 

India’s new No.3, Shubman Gill, has finally settled into his new role. In the Ranchi Test, Shubman played a decisive part in the second innings that led India to a series-winning victory. He will be taking that confidence to Dharamsala in a bid to end this series on a good note. 

Middle Order

The Indian middle order has seen some major changes in this series. In the absence of senior players, the youngsters have applied themselves perfectly. However, there is still confusion about the No.4 spot. Rajat Patidar has not been able to grab his opportunities which is a cause of concern. But the team management may give one more chance to grab this golden opportunity. The other notable names in the middle order will be Ravindra Jadeja, Sarfaraz Khan, and Ranchi’s hero, Dhruv Jurel. 

Bowling Unit

India’s ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah is likely to make a comeback after a deserved rest in the fourth Test. His inclusion will boost India’s chances as the conditions in Dharamsala will suit the fast bowlers. India can go with two more pacers, Mohammad Siraj and Akash Deep. Whereas, there can be an exclusion in the spin department spin keeping in mind the circumstances in Dharamsala. Kuldeep Yadav might sit out as Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja are likely to be preferred though it will be a tough decision to make for the team management.