England name playing XI for third Test against India

Ahead of the third Test of the ongoing five-game series between India and England, the Ben Stokes-led side came forward to announce their squad for the third Test of the series. It is worth noting that both sides will face off in the third Test at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot from February 15.

With Ben Stokes set to make his 100th Test appearance for England, the visitors announced just one change to their squad, which was star pacer Mark Wood coming in to replace Shoaib Bashir.

England’s XI for third Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes ©, Ben Foakes, Rehan Ahmed, Tom Hartley, Mark Wood, James Anderson

After winning the first Test of the series in dominant fashion, England came into the second Test full of confidence. However, the Indian team pulled the series right back and registered a brilliant win in the second Test to level the series.

India look to claim advantage in Test series

As the third Test approaches, fans would be lying in anticipation to see what lineup the Indian team would field to take on England in Rajkot. With KL Rahul continuing the recovery from his injuries, ace all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja might make his return to the lineup which would be a big boost to the side. However, his chances in Rajkot are also in doubt.

Furthermore, Dhruv Jurel could make his way into the side in place of KS Bharat as well, and with prolific batter Sarfaraz Khan anticipated to make his debut, the hosts could be in for a stacked lineup to take on England in the third Test.

The Indian team will be keen on avoiding any slip-ups in Rajkot as they did in Hyderabad, but the win in Vizag has surely boosted the confidence of the hosts and they will look to approach the third Test in a similar manner.

Also Read: KL Rahul accused of ‘sending wrong signals’ despite being sidelined from England Tests due to injury