IND vs ENG: Ben Stokes And Key Players Ruled Out Of 5th Test, Pope Takes Over Captaincy Duties; Check Playing XI

IND vs ENG 5th Test: England's preparations for the final Test against India have hit a dappled setback as captain Ben Stokes, spinner Liam Dawson and pace bowlers Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse have been ruled out of The Oval encounter.

"The England Men’s team has announced four changes to their XI for the Rothesay Fifth Test against India at the Kia Oval, starting on Thursday."

"Captain Ben Stokes is unavailable due to a right shoulder injury. Also missing out are spinner Liam Dawson and pace bowlers Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse," England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) stated in an official statement.

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With original captain Stokes sidelined due to injury, Ollie Pope will take charge of England's captaincy for the crucial fifth Test against India at The Oval.

As the key players ruled out of the 5th Test, England have included Jacob Bethell, who will bat at No.6. Pacers Gus Atkinson and Jamie Overton also came into the Playing XI, along with quick Josh Tongue.

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England will head into the match with a new look bowling attack at The Oval, with veteran Chris Woakes retaining his place from the Manchester game.

England's Playing XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue.