With India v England 5th Test only days away, England have summoned Jamie Overton to their team as they look at new names for the series decider at The Oval. Overton, who was last seen representing Surrey in the County Championship, is the sole addition to the team that played out the drawn fourth Test at Old Trafford.
Bowling Workload Forces Selection Re-think
England’s bowlers went through a marathon session in the fourth Test, delivering more than 250 overs in a game in which India mounted a gritty fightback to earn a draw. England captain Ben Stokes admitted that the bowlers had finally run out of steam and suggested changes could follow to bring new energy to the team.
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“Everybody is going to be quite stiff and fatigued heading into the final game,” Stokes explained. “These recovery days will be very important, and we might have to make some tough choices to introduce some fresh legs.”
Jamie Overton’s Return: A Welcome Boost
Jamie Overton played a Test for England only in 2022, and his comeback is well-timed. His selection brings pace and brawn, possibly taking some of the load off a tired bowling department. With not much time between the fourth and fifth Tests, Overton’s knowledge of The Oval, where he plays, may prove to be a significant plus.
Who May Make Way?
A few bowlers have been overused in the series:
Chris Woakes has bowled 167 overs, the most among any player. Brydon Carse and Ben Stokes have also bowled over 140 overs each. Jofra Archer, who has just come back from four years away from Test cricket, might be treated with caution.
Gus Atkinson, fit again after a hamstring problem, is still in the running and can be a substitute for Woakes. Josh Tongue, still England’s second-highest wicket-taker in this series, is also likely to return.
England’s Plan: Rest and Recovery First
England have cancelled their Tuesday training session to ensure rest and recovery take precedence. The team will reconvene at The Oval on Wednesday to finalize selection decisions on the basis of fitness and conditions.
Full England Squad for India vs England 5th Test
Ben Stokes (captain)
Jofra Archer
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Gus Atkinson
Jacob Bethell
Harry Brook
Brydon Carse
Zak Crawley
Liam Dawson
Ben Duckett
Jamie Overton
Ollie Pope
Joe Root
Jamie Smith
Josh Tongue
Chris Woakes
Tactical Tweaks Could Decide the Series
With India vs England 5th Test set to be the series climber, Jamie Overton’s inclusion may bring the much-needed pace and power of England. As both teams look to administer a knockout blow in an intensely fought series, team depth and new legs might be the difference.
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