Team India’s preparations for the crucial fourth Test in Manchester have been thrown into disarray, as a mounting injury crisis sees Nitish Kumar Reddy ruled out, while several others edge closer to missing the clash. With less than 48 hours remaining before the Old Trafford showdown, India’s bid to level the series hangs in the balance amid what can only be described as injuries scuttling India’s preparation.
Nitish Kumar Reddy Ruled Out: A Major Blow
All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been ruled out of the remainder of the England tour after scans confirmed a serious knee ligament tear sustained during a gym session in Manchester on July 20. Reddy had been influential in the Lord’s Test, claiming key wickets in England’s first innings; his absence leaves a sizable void in India’s bowling-batting all-round contingent.
Pacer Woes Deepen: Arshdeep and Akash Deep Out
The bowling department has also suffered significant setbacks:
- Arshdeep Singh, who was on the verge of his Test debut, sustained a deep cut to his bowling hand during a net session and was immediately ruled out.
- Akash Deep, after a promising spell at Edgbaston, is now doubtful with a recurring groin and back issue following a twinge at Lord’s.
Support Package: Anshul Kamboj Called Up
In response, the BCCI has drafted in Haryana seamer Anshul Kamboj as cover, hoping he can offset the losses in the seam attack. Kamboj’s addition is a gamble, but one that could pay off given the current shortage of pace-bowling options.
Wicketkeeping Uncertainty: Pant’s Return Hinges on Recovery
Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who sustained a finger injury at Lord’s, remains a fitness question mark. However, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has offered some reassurance, saying Pant is nearing full fitness and likely to resume keeping duties in Manchester.
Star Bowler in Focus: Bumrah’s Load Management
Fast-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is set to play his third Test of the series, with team management opting to deploy him in Manchester rather than saving him for the Oval finale. This decision ensures India field their best strike attack, especially as injury losses have depleted the team’s depth.
Tactical Rebalance: India’s Playing XI in Limbo
With Nitish Reddy, Arshdeep, and Akash Deep out and Pant only partially cleared, India face a strategic challenge in Manchester. Options like Shardul Thakur, Washington Sundar, and Kuldeep Yadav may have to step up. The biggest question: does the management persist with backup options or bring in new faces to restore balance?
England Responds: Dawson Called Up, Bashir Ruled Out
Meanwhile, England has made its own adjustments by bringing in veteran spinner Liam Dawson to replace the injured Shoaib Bashir. Their depth may test India’s weakened roster, especially in English conditions that favor seamers and experienced all-rounders.
What This Means Going Into Manchester
- India’s preparation disrupted: With key players ruled out just days before the Test, the preparation bubble has been shattered.
- Squad reshuffling imminent: Expect a rejigged XI, possibly resting senior players based on recent performance and fitness.
- Crucial Test on the line: The series stands at 2–1 in favor of England. A win at Old Trafford would level the series; a loss would hand England an unassailable lead.
The Road Ahead: A Resilient Make-or-Break Moment
India now face the pressing task of regrouping quickly at Old Trafford. Anshul Kamboj must integrate seamlessly. Rishabh Pant needs a near-miraculous recovery. Bumrah must deliver ruthlessly. And the makeshift unit must step up collectively—a stern test of depth, character, and adaptability.
Whether this mounting list of absentees—Nitish Reddy ruled out, Arshdeep out, Akash Deep doubtful, Pant injured—becomes the stuff of lasting regret or the fuel for an inspired comeback depends on how India responds under duress. It’s a battle not just against England, but against adversity itself.
