India Hit by Double Blow Ahead of Fourth Test: Arshdeep Out, Nitish Reddy Flies Home

Excerpt: India’s preparations for the pivotal fourth Test against England have been rocked by the unavailability of Arshdeep Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy. With both players ruled out due to injury, the door is now open for Kuldeep Yadav’s return, while Anshul Kamboj joins the squad. Here’s how these changes could shape the contest at Manchester.

Injury Setbacks: Arshdeep and Nitish Reddy Ruled Out

India’s tour of England has taken a dramatic turn on the eve of the fourth Test, set to begin July 23 in Manchester. The BCCI confirmed that Arshdeep Singh will miss the match after sustaining an impact injury to his left thumb during a training session in Beckenham. This comes as a significant setback, considering Arshdeep’s impressive performances with the ball in the series so far[3].

Adding to India’s woes, all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been ruled out of the remainder of the series due to a left knee injury. Reddy, who was seen as a promising option for balance in the lower middle order and with the ball, has flown back home for rehabilitation[3][4].

Squad Updates: Anshul Kamboj In, Kuldeep Yadav in Contention

With these injuries, the selectors have drafted Anshul Kamboj into the squad. Kamboj, who impressed in the warm-up matches with both bat and ball, now finds himself in the mix for a Test debut[4]. More intriguingly, the absence of Arshdeep and Reddy could pave the way for Kuldeep Yadav’s inclusion in the playing XI.

Kuldeep, a left-arm wrist spinner with a Test average of 22.16 from 13 matches, has often been considered a luxury in India’s pace-heavy overseas line-ups[2]. However, with the Manchester surface known to assist spinners as the match progresses, and India needing a wicket-taking option in the middle overs, Kuldeep’s unique skills could be crucial[1][2].

India’s Updated Squad for the Fourth Test

England vs India: Series Context and Standings

The five-match series has been fiercely contested, with England currently holding a 1-0 lead after a remarkable run chase in Leeds[1]. India, trailing in the series, are under pressure to level the scoreline in Manchester to keep their World Test Championship hopes alive.

Kuldeep Yadav: The X-Factor?

Kuldeep Yadav’s potential return is generating buzz. Despite his limited overseas opportunities, his ability to turn the ball both ways and extract bounce could trouble England’s middle order, especially if the pitch offers any assistance[1][2]. Kuldeep last played a Test outside Asia over six years ago, but his record—two five-wicket hauls in his last two Test appearances—suggests he could be a game-changer if trusted with a spot in the XI[2].

Expected Playing XI for the Fourth Test

Based on current form, injuries, and conditions, here’s the likely Indian XI for Manchester:

Kuldeep Yadav is tipped to replace Akashdeep Singh, offering variety and attacking options in the spin department.

Expert Analysis and Future Implications

India’s injury setbacks have forced a rethink in strategy. The inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav could provide the cutting edge needed to break England’s partnerships, especially if the pitch deteriorates. The team’s depth will be tested, and the performance of newcomers like Anshul Kamboj could shape the series’ outcome.

With the World Test Championship points at stake and the series on the line, India’s ability to adapt to adversity will be under the spotlight. A win in Manchester could set up a thrilling finale, while another defeat would hand England an unassailable lead.