As the high-stakes India vs England five-match Test series approaches its fourth chapter, both teams gear up with new lineups, injury updates, and shifting momentum. The fourth Test kicks off at 3:30 PM IST on July 23, 2025, with England leading 2-1 and India battling to stay alive in the series.

England’s Lineup: One Tactical Change

England, led by Ben Stokes, have shown consistency in their selection and performance. Their only change in the fourth Test comes in the spin department. Liam Dawson replaces the injured Shoaib Bashir, making a return to Test cricket after four years. The team continues to rely on the solid form of Ben Stokes, Jamie Smith, Joe Root, and the aggressive strokeplay of Harry Brook and Ben Duckett.

England Playing XI:

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Liam Dawson, Chris Woakes, Jofra Archer, and Brydon Carse.

India’s Lineup: Injuries Force Rejig

Team India walks into the fourth Test with fitness concerns clouding their selection. Two of their frontline bowlers, Akashdeep and Arshdeep Singh, have been ruled out due to injuries. Adding to the woes, promising all-rounder Nitish Reddy has also been sidelined.

The biggest blow, however, is the injury to vice-captain and Test specialist Rishabh Pant, who sustained a thumb injury. If he fails to clear the fitness test, Dhruv Jurel is likely to step in as wicketkeeper, pushing Rishabh Pant up the batting order if fit.

Despite the setbacks, India retains a balanced mix of youth and experience. The likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill will be key at the top, while the spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja will play a crucial role on a dry pitch in Manachester.

India Probable XI:

Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (c), Rishabh Pant / Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Anshul Kamboj, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj.

What’s at Stake?

With England already leading 2-1, a win in the fourth Test would seal the series for them. For India, it’s a must-win game to level the series and keep the fifth Test. The match is expected to see a turning track, especially as the game progresses. Spin could dominate, making Kuldeep Yadav, Jadeja, and Liam Dawson critical figures in their respective sides.

Key Battles to Watch

• Jasprit Bumrah vs Joe Root: A contest of experience and skill
• Kuldeep Yadav vs Ben Duckett: Left-arm wrist spin against an attacking opener
• Yashasvi Jaiswal vs Jofra Archer: Youthful aggression vs express pace

With injuries shaking up the Indian camp and England looking to finish the series early, the fourth Test promises drama, resilience, and high-stakes cricket. Both sides have depth, but India will need character and creativity to bounce back.

Cricket fans across the globe will tune in as this classic rivalry delivers another chapter in Manchester.