Irfan Pathan has advised that the Indian squad make many changes to their playing XI for the fifth and final Test match of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025, which begins on Thursday, July 31 at The Oval in London. India is losing 1-2 in the series, but a valiant effort with the bat helped them salvage a draw in the fourth Test.
India will be without Rishabh Pant, who has a foot fracture. Pathan suggested that Dhruv Jurel replace the Indian vice-captain in the playing XI. Jasprit Bumrah’s workload could also be reduced, and he could be given a break. The former India all-rounder believes Kuldeep Yadav should replace Bumrah in the side, as he can assist the team pick up 20 wickets. Pathan also indicated a third change, stating that either Arshdeep Singh or Prasidh Krishna might replace Anshul Kamboj, who did not have a memorable international debut in the fourth Test.
“I believe Jurel will take the place of Pant. He’ll bat there. Kuldeep takes the place of Bumrah. And for Anshul Kamboj, I believe Arshdeep should make his debut. When Kamboj made his debut, he faced a lot of pressure. But Arshdeep is still unique. He is a regular in white-ball cricket and possesses wicket-taking skills. He will have an easier time making his debut. Will they look at Prasidh? Either of them. So you’ve got six bowling alternatives. The pacers will become weary. Then utilise Kuldeep, which is young and fresh. Bring your trump card to the last match and equalise the series,” he wrote on his YouTube account.
Washington Sundar has given that depth, which has made a big difference: Irfan Pathan
Pathan also lauded Washington Sundar, who has excelled with both bat and ball in the ongoing five-match series. On the final day of the fifth Test, he slammed his maiden international century. Pathan said that the Tamil Nadu star’s inclusion has added a lot of depth to the Indian team.
“Sundar plays at 7,8,9 and suddenly comes at 5 and makes runs. Since he has come into the team he has been like a boon in batting and bowling. He has given that depth, which has made a big difference. It looks like he can fix a spot at 5 or 6 going forward. It is a very big positive in that sense,” he said.
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