Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025: In-Depth Analysis of Team India’s Probable Playing XI and Changes for the Manchester Test
The five-match Test series between India and England under the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy is at a decisive juncture. England has taken a 2-1 lead in the series by winning the first and third Tests, while India made a strong comeback by winning the second match. The fourth Test is scheduled to begin on July 23 at Old Trafford in Manchester, and for Team India, it’s a “do-or-die” encounter.
Ahead of this crucial match, India has been hit hard by injuries. Two key performers from the Lord’s Test — Akash Deep and Nitish Kumar Reddy — have been ruled out due to injuries. Their absence has compelled the team management to make at least two changes in the playing XI.
Injured Players and Possible Replacements
Akash Deep, who claimed 10 wickets in the second Test and made a big impact with the ball, was dealing with a groin injury during the third Test. The injury worsened during practice, making his return to the series highly unlikely. Similarly, Nitish Kumar Reddy, who impressed with both bat and ball at Lord’s, has been ruled out of the series due to a knee ligament injury.
To replace them, the team could opt for two players from Prasidh Krishna, Shardul Thakur, and Anshul Kamboj. Anshul Kamboj has been included in the Test squad for the first time and is likely to make his debut. On the other hand, Shardul Thakur may be preferred for his all-round abilities.
Uncertainty at the Top Order
The opening pair of KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal is expected to continue for the fourth Test. Rahul has scored two brilliant centuries in the series so far, including one at Lord’s. Jaiswal has also hit a century, making this opening pair stable and dependable.
However, there is uncertainty over Karun Nair, who bats at No. 3. He has failed to score a single fifty in six innings, with a highest score of just 40. The team management may consider replacing him with Sai Sudharsan or Dhruv Jurel. Sudharsan played the first Test, while Jurel kept wickets in the previous match.
Middle Order Conundrum
Shubman Gill, the captain, remains firm at the No. 4 spot. Rishabh Pant, who bats at No. 5, sustained an injury while wicketkeeping at Lord’s, making it unlikely for him to don the gloves in the fourth Test.
If Pant is unfit to keep wickets, Dhruv Jurel may be included as the designated wicketkeeper. In that case, Karun Nair is likely to be dropped, and either Jurel or Washington Sundar could bat at No. 3. Considering Sundar’s sound technique and bowling ability, he might be a strong candidate for the role.
All-Rounder Department: Key Role of Sundar and Jadeja
India already has two quality all-rounders in the form of Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar. Jadeja has been remarkably consistent, scoring four fifties in the series, while Sundar picked up 4 wickets in the second innings of the last Test, restricting England to under 200.
If Pant plays only as a batsman and Jurel takes the gloves, Sundar can be promoted to bat higher in the order. This would add depth to the batting lineup and strengthen the spin attack.
Pace Attack: Bumrah, Siraj, and a New Partner
Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are India’s leading pacers. Siraj has played all three Tests so far, while Bumrah has featured in two. Due to workload management, if Bumrah plays this match, he may skip the fifth and final Test.
The third pacer slot could go to either Prasidh Krishna, who has already played two Tests in the series, or Anshul Kamboj, who could make his Test debut. Kamboj has impressed in domestic cricket and now has a chance to prove himself on the international stage.
Probable Playing XI for Manchester Test
- KL Rahul
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Washington Sundar / Sai Sudharsan
- Shubman Gill (Captain)
- Rishabh Pant
- Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Shardul Thakur
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
- Anshul Kamboj / Prasidh Krishna
Conclusion
For a team grappling with injuries, this Test match is critical for India to stay alive in the series. The probable playing XI, which brings a blend of experience and youth, could provide the right balance. If Pant contributes with the bat, Jurel manages the gloves well, and the pace trio is effective, India has a real shot at leveling the series 2-2 in Manchester.
All eyes will be on the team selection — will the management go with debutants, stick to experience, or strike a bold balance to turn the tide in India’s favor? The answers will unfold on July 23.
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