Karun Nair Returns to India’s Playing XI in 5th Test Against England

India finds itself 1-2 down in the ongoing five-match Test series against England, and changes seem imminent ahead of the decisive final match at the Kennington Oval in the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy. With Jasprit Bumrah set to be rested for workload reasons, either Arshdeep Singh or Prasidh Krishna could step in to fill the void. These aren’t the only possible changes, and head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill are also expected to consider making further adjustments to the playing XI as they look to level the series in the final match. The decisive fixture could also mark the return of an unlikely name.

Karun Nair Returns For IND vs ENG 5th Test

According to a report from The Indian Express, Karun Nair returned to the playing XI after missing out on the Manchester Test, which ended in a draw. Nair has scored 131 runs in six innings at an average of 21.83, with a highest score of 40. This could be a critical opportunity for Nair to fix his place in the Test squad.
More India squad changes will see Dhruv Jurel replace the injured Rishabh Pant as wicketkeeper. The southpaw Pant suffered a toe injury in the Manchester Test. Though N Jagadeesan was called up as cover, Jurel has been the preferred choice to take the gloves.

India 5th Test squad sees another massive change ahead of the crucial fifth Test against England at The Oval. Jasprit Bumrah will be rested as part of the team's workload management plan, with medical staff advising rest to protect his back after a taxing series.

Meanwhile, pacer Anshul Kamboj has been dropped following a difficult debut in the previous Test. With the fast bowling unit returning to full strength, Kamboj has been left out of the playing XI for this decisive encounter.
In a surprising move, pacer Prasidh Krishna is expected to come into the side instead of Arshdeep Singh, filling the spot vacated by Anshul Kamboj. This strategic decision highlights the team management’s faith in Krishna’s abilities for the important contest. Additionally, it reflects India’s strategy to maintain a balanced and competitive side as they aim to draw the series in London.

Probable XI Balances Batting and Bowling For Final Test

The pitch conditions at The Oval have also influenced India 5th Test squad. The grassy surface may lead to left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav missing out yet again, potentially returning home without a single Test appearance this tour. Kuldeep’s omission reflects the team’s preference for an extra batter over a specialist spinner in conditions likely to favour seam bowling. With an unsettled top order and the inexperienced Dhruv Jurel stepping in as wicketkeeper for the injured Rishabh Pant, the focus is on strengthening the batting lineup. Bowling coach Morne Morkel and team insiders have clarified that Kuldeep’s exclusion is not a reflection of his skill but rather a strategic choice to maintain balance in the side.

India is set to go with a five-bowler strategy for the fifth Test against England, featuring three specialist fast bowlers supported by all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar to emphasise consistent bowling performances. With that in mind, here’s a look at India’s likely playing XI for the series decider at The Oval: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (C), Karun Nair, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.
The probable lineup is expected to prioritise balance and depth, aiming to deliver both stability and potency in the final and crucial encounter.