Know all major updates from team India ahead of ENG vs IND 4th Test

Team India has suffered another setback in the fast bowling department ahead of the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford, Manchester. After left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh injured his hand, Akash Deep is now likely to miss the upcoming match due to a recurring back problem.

Akash, who was India’s star in the third Test at Edgbaston with a brilliant 10-wicket haul, is reportedly struggling again with the same back issue that troubled him during the Australia tour earlier this year. He was seen in discomfort during the second innings at Lord’s and even walked off the field during his spell on Day 4, clutching his lower back. Former England captain Michael Atherton, while commentating, said, “He is walking very gingerly. Not a good sign for India.”

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Akash had missed cricket for three months earlier this year due to the same injury and had joined his IPL team, Lucknow Super Giants, late in the season. With Akash and Arshdeep both struggling, the team has called in young Haryana fast bowler Anshul Kamboj as a backup option. A team source revealed that Jasprit Bumrah, India’s pace spearhead, is expected to play the fourth Test in Manchester. However, both Bumrah and Akash Deep won’t be playing together in the same match.

🚨 UPDATES ON TEAM INDIA 🚨 [Pratyush Raj from TOI]

- Bumrah set to play the 4th Test.
- Akash Deep likely to be rested for the 4th Test.
- Kamboj has joined Indian team. pic.twitter.com/c0KX4zrSrg

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 20, 2025

“It was already decided before the tour that Bumrah will play only three Tests in this series. Now that Akash’s back is troubling him again, the team management has planned that if Bumrah plays in Manchester, Akash will rest. Then Akash might play the final Test at The Oval when Bumrah is rested,” the source said. Akash Deep didn’t take part in the team’s net session before leaving for Manchester, which added to concerns. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate hinted at the issue during a press interaction when bowling coach Morne Morkel was seen bowling at the nets.

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“Arsh had to leave after cutting his hand, and Akash didn’t bowl today. So we were a bit short. If someone like Morne bowls a few deliveries from 20 yards, it still gives batters some useful practice,” he explained. The fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy starts on July 23 in Manchester. With the series tied at 1-1, India will be hoping their remaining bowlers step up in the absence of their in-form pacers.