Injury Concerns for India Ahead of Fourth Test; Kamboj Called Up as Fast-Bowling Cover
India’s preparations for the crucial fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, Manchester, have been disrupted by injuries to two key fast bowlers—Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh. Both are now doubtful for the match starting July 23, forcing the selectors to call up Haryana pacer Anshul Kamboj as cover for the final two Tests of the five-match series.
Arshdeep Singh injured his bowling hand while following through during a training session in Beckenham on Thursday. Meanwhile, Akash Deep is struggling with a groin niggle that he appeared to pick up during the third Test at Lord’s, where he was seen leaving the field on the fourth afternoon for treatment. Although he featured in fitness drills during the Beckenham practice sessions, Akash did not participate in bowling or batting activities. Trainer Adrian Le Roux monitored him closely during the session.
The full extent of their injuries remains uncertain and is expected to be clarified during India’s official media briefing on Monday. Both pacers have traveled with the team to Manchester from London, indicating they are still under consideration but remain doubtful starters for the fourth Test.
The absence of Akash Deep in particular would be a significant blow to India’s plans. The right-arm seamer was instrumental in India’s comeback in the second Test at Birmingham, claiming a 10-wicket match haul. However, he struggled in the third Test at Lord’s, managing just one wicket and failing to find rhythm, especially from the Pavilion End.
India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate had already flagged Arshdeep’s injury as a concern, and Akash Deep’s uncertainty further complicates the team’s bowling strategy. The fourth Test is critical for both sides: a win for India would level the series 2-2, while a loss would hand England the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
In light of these setbacks, the inclusion of 23-year-old Anshul Kamboj offers the team a fresh option, though it remains to be seen if he will make his debut in such a high-pressure fixture.
