ENG vs IND 2025: Why is Ishan Kishan picked over Sanju Samson for 5th Test?

With Pant now to just bat and ruled out of wicketkeeping duties, he is doubtful for the fifth Test at the Oval. However, according to reports, the team management has contacted Ishan Kishan as the potential replacement for Pant. But many questions about why India is looking at Kishan and not Sanju Samson.

India’s ongoing Test series against England has seen some unfortunate injuries. One of the latest developments has been vice-captain Rishabh Pant’s toe fracture, sustained during the opening day of the fourth Test in Manchester.

Rishabh Pant suffers toe injury in 4th Test

Meanwhile, Pant suffered a blow on his right toe while attempting a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes on Day 1 of the fourth Test. Although he was batting on 37, the injury forced him to retire hurt, and he was taken off the field with the help of a buggy. Scans later confirmed a toe fracture, and doctors have advised him to rest for at least six weeks.

Dhruv Jurel to take up wicketkeeping duties

While Pant remains with the team and is available to bat as per team requirements, the chances of him being risked in the fifth Test are limited. The visitors are unlikely to aggravate his injury. Dhruv Jurel is set to take up the wicketkeeping duties in the fourth Test.

Ishan Kishan contacted by Indian management

According to multiple reports, the BCCI’s selection committee is looking to bring Ishan Kishan for the fifth and final Test starting July 31 at The Oval. The speculations have stunned many, considering Kishan has been out of the national setup since 2023. However, there are a few reasons behind the preference for Kishan over Sanju Samson.

Ishan Kishan’s Test experience

The southpaw made his Test debut during India’s tour of the West Indies in 2023, scoring 78 runs in three innings. Notably, he was part of India’s squad for the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia in 2023, which was played in England. However, KS Bharat was picked in the XI for the summit clash.

Ishan Kishan currently in England for his County stint

Kishan is currently in England playing County Championship cricket for Nottinghamshire. He has been in solid form, registering scores of 87 against Yorkshire and 77 against Somerset, along with five dismissals (four catches, one stumping). Earlier, Kishan was with the India A for the tour of England, but didn’t feature in any of the two games.

Concerns over Sanju Samson’s fitness

Meanwhile, Sanju Samson had a rough IPL 2025 season affected by injuries. He began the season recovering from a fractured right index finger and later suffered an abdominal strain that saw him miss several matches. Though he made a return late in the tournament, he played just nine games, scoring 285 runs.

For now, Jurel is the first-choice wicketkeeper and will likely keep wickets in the fifth Test. However, the Indian team are looking for a reliable backup, and Kishan fits the spot.