India looking to make three changes in the playing XI for fifth Test

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After CricBlogger first reported that Akash Deep is likely to replace Jasprit Bumrah in the playing XI for the fifth Test, it is now learnt that the Indian team management is also considering dropping Anshul Kamboj. In his place, Arshdeep Singh is expected to be drafted into the squad as a debutant, sources told this website. In all, India are likely to make three changes to the playing XI for the final Test at The Oval.

The team is also inclined to persist with Shardul Thakur, choosing seam-bowling depth over the wrist-spin option of Kuldeep Yadav. With Dhruv Jurel certain to don the gloves in place of the injured Rishabh Pant, the batting lineup is expected to remain unchanged.

In the absence of Bumrah, the Indian team management is keen on fielding its most effective bowling combination to maintain balance and potency in the attack. To strengthen the pace unit and add variety, left-arm seamer Arshdeep is being seriously considered for inclusion in the playing XI. His ability to swing the ball both ways and offer a different angle to the right-handers could complement the existing fast bowlers and provide the team with a much-needed edge.

This move appears to be a last-ditch effort by the Indian team management to win the final Test and level the series, thereby retaining the prestigious Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. With the series on the line, every selection decision is being made with a clear intent to maximize India’s chances of pulling off a decisive victory.