How will Nitish Reddy and Akash Deep being ruled out of Manchester Test result in the Indian lineup? Explained!

Multiple injuries, including Nitish Reddy and Akash Deep, have shaken up India's squad dynamics ahead of the Manchester Test against England.

Team India has been hit by a number of injuries ahead of their crucial fourth Test against England in Manchester, with three players being ruled out and two unlikely to return. The July 23rd Test at Old Trafford has become a do-or-die contest for the trailing visitors, with the series hanging in the balance.

Arshdeep Singh, a left-arm pacer, required stitches after sustaining a hand injury during a net session. As the situation prevails, he may miss the fourth Test, and his participation in the final Test at The Oval is in doubt. Hence, Anshul Kamboj has been drafted into the squad as cover.

Akash Deep, who contributed to India’s 336-run win in Birmingham with his record 10-wicket match haul, is doubtful for the Manchester Test after struggling with a groin niggle.

Shardul Thakur is expected to replace the injured Nitish Reddy in India’s playing XI. Shardul played in the series opener at Leeds last month, but was dropped after scoring just four runs and taking two wickets.

The injury to Akash Deep has complicated India’s bowling plans, especially regarding the workload of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Harshit Rana could also be drafted in as Arshdeep’s replacement. Due to his impressive performance during the India A tour, the Delhi pacer was added to the squad just before the Headingley Test.

Another option for the Indian team is to give Kuldeep Yadav his first game of the tour. Even though such a move would generate considerable anticipation, India might not have adequate pace bowling options, especially since both spin-bowling all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar are already in the playing XI. Gautam Gambhir is unlikely to sacrifice one of the all-rounders for a wrist-spinner, given his tactical approach.

Anshul Kamboj could also make his Test debut. During the most recent Ranji Trophy season, he impressed with his performances in two matches for India A. However, Harshit Rana was initially picked as the team’s backup pacer, this move might spark debate about the pecking order.

Speaking of Rishabh Pant, he posted a video from his training session with the caption: “If calm had a sound, it would be this.” He appeared unbothered by the speculation around his injury. Ahead of the Manchester Test, the vice-captain — who was replaced by Dhruv Jurel for wicketkeeping duties in both innings — participated in fielding drills, played football, and even batted in the nets.

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