England Set to make four changes in the fifth test
England’s Bold Overhaul for The Oval: Ben Stokes Sits Out, New Faces Step In for Fifth Test Against India
Excerpt: England have rung the changes for the fifth and final Test against India at The Oval, with captain Ben Stokes set to miss out due to injury concerns. In his absence, a fresh quartet—Jacob Bethell, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, and Josh Tongue—have been drafted in, signaling a new era and a tactical shift as England look to seal the series.
England’s Fifth Test Shake-Up: A New-Look Squad for The Oval
The 2025 India-England Test series has been a rollercoaster, with both sides battling injuries, form, and the relentless English summer. As the teams head to The Oval for the series decider starting July 31, England have made headlines by announcing a raft of changes, most notably the absence of their talismanic captain, Ben Stokes. The decision to rest Stokes, who has been visibly struggling with discomfort throughout the series, marks a significant moment for England, both tactically and symbolically.
Why the Changes? The Context Behind England’s Selection
Ben Stokes’ omission is as much about protecting his long-term fitness as it is about immediate performance. Having played through pain and led from the front, Stokes’ workload—especially as a batting all-rounder—has been immense. With the series delicately poised at 2-1 in England’s favor after a drawn fourth Test at Old Trafford, the selectors have opted for fresh legs and new energy.
Joining the squad are:
Jacob Bethell: The dynamic left-handed all-rounder, known for his aggressive batting and handy spin.
Gus Atkinson: The express pacer who has impressed in county cricket and limited-overs internationals.
Jamie Overton: The pace-bowling all-rounder, returning to the Test fold after a three-year gap.
Josh Tongue: The tall, bustling seamer who has been on the fringes of the Test side.
This injection of youth and pace is a clear signal: England are not content to sit back and defend their lead—they want to attack.
Recent Match Data and Series Overview
The series so far has been fiercely contested, with both teams showcasing moments of brilliance and vulnerability.
Recent Results
Test | Venue | Result | England Score | India Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1st | Leeds | England won by 5 wkts | 373-5 & 465 | 364 & 471 |
2nd | Birmingham | India won by 336 runs | 271 & 407 | 427-6d & 587 |
3rd | Lord’s | England won by 22 runs | 192 & 387 | 170 & 387 |
4th | Manchester | Match drawn | 669 | 425-4 & 358 |
England lead the series 2-1, with one match drawn. India’s only win came in emphatic fashion at Edgbaston, while England have edged two close contests.
Player Statistics: The New Entrants
With several debutants or near-debutants, here’s a look at what the new faces bring to the table:
Player | Tests Played | Batting Avg | Bowling Avg | Recent First-Class Season (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Jacob Bethell | 0 | 41.2* | 28.5* | 812 runs, 28 wickets |
Gus Atkinson | 1 | 12.0 | 34.0 | 38 wickets @ 22.1 |
Jamie Overton | 1 | 97.0 | 40.0 | 27 wickets, 410 runs |
Josh Tongue | 2 | 18.5 | 31.7 | 32 wickets @ 24.3 |
*Bethell’s stats are from first-class cricket; he is uncapped at Test level.
England’s Current Standing and ICC Rankings
England’s Test side has enjoyed a resurgence in the last two years, climbing to third in the ICC Test rankings. Their aggressive “Bazball” approach—named after coach Brendon McCullum—has redefined their style, but the absence of Stokes will test their depth and adaptability.
Team | ICC Test Ranking | Points |
|---|---|---|
India | 1 | 124 |
Australia | 2 | 119 |
England | 3 | 115 |
A series win here would further consolidate England’s position and set the tone for the upcoming Ashes and World Test Championship cycle.
Expert Analysis: What Do These Changes Mean?
Tactical Implications
Bowling Firepower: With Atkinson, Overton, and Tongue, England have assembled a pace battery capable of exploiting The Oval’s bounce and carry. Overton’s all-round abilities offer balance, while Atkinson’s raw pace is an X-factor.
Batting Depth: Bethell’s inclusion adds a left-handed option in the middle order and a second spin option, potentially crucial if the pitch takes turn late in the match.
Leadership Void: With Stokes out, the captaincy likely falls to Joe Root or Ollie Pope. Root’s experience will be vital, but the team will miss Stokes’ inspirational presence.
Historical Context
England have not lost a home Test series to India since 2007. The Oval has traditionally favored England, but India’s recent overseas form—especially their win at Edgbaston—shows they are no longer daunted by English conditions.
Future Implications and Predictions
This match is more than a series decider; it’s a glimpse into England’s future. The selectors’ willingness to blood new talent under pressure bodes well for the long term. If Bethell or Atkinson make an impact, they could become mainstays in the next World Test Championship cycle.
Prediction: Expect a hard-fought contest. England’s new-look side will play with freedom, but India, led by Shubman Gill and bolstered by a potent bowling attack, will sense an opportunity to level the series. The absence of Stokes tilts the balance slightly towards India, but The Oval’s conditions and England’s depth make this a true 50-50 contest.
As the teams take the field, all eyes will be on the debutants and the tactical chess match between two of cricket’s modern heavyweights. The fifth Test promises drama, skill, and a glimpse into the future of Test cricket.