India’s build-up to the fourth Test at Old Trafford has become decidedly trickier. Both Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh picked up knocks during Thursday’s session in Beckenham, and team management now expects the pair to miss the Manchester match, starting 23 July.
Arshdeep, unlucky in his follow-through, jarred his bowling hand. Akash Deep, meanwhile, left training early with what medical staff have described as a “groin niggle”. Neither injury appears long-term, but the timing could hardly be worse: England lead the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy 2-1, so India must win to keep the series alive.
Selectors have moved quickly, summoning Haryana right-armer Anshul Kamboj as cover for the remaining two Tests. Kamboj, 23, has impressed on the domestic circuit with a brisk high-80s mph approach and a tidy outswinger. Whether he earns an immediate debut may depend on Jasprit Bumrah. The spearhead was pencilled in for only three Tests this tour yet, with the series on the line, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate admitted the staff were “leaning towards” playing him in Manchester.
Even so, India’s attack looks stretched. Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna are fit, but workloads are mounting, and English conditions have offered sustained assistance to seamers all summer.
For England, the equation is simpler: avoid defeat and the trophy stays put. A 22-run escape at Lord’s gave Ben Stokes’ side the advantage; another disciplined outing would seal the deal.
More updates expected once medical assessments are complete.
