Ben Stokes has been forced to withdraw from England's final Test against India at The Oval due to a shoulder injury, with Ollie Pope stepping up as captain. The all-rounder battled through the fifth day of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, bowling long spells while grimacing in pain, but the short turnaround between matches has ruled him out of the series decider starting Thursday.
Stokes has been replaced in the squad by all-rounder Jacob Bethell, whose left-arm spin allows England to include an extra seamer at the expense of Liam Dawson. Bethell, previously used as a No.3, will bat at No.6 in Stokes' position. England have refreshed their bowling attack, with only Chris Woakes retaining his place; Josh Tongue, Gus Atkinson, and Jamie Overton join the side.
Stokes played a pivotal role in England's 2-1 series lead, scoring his first Test century in two years at Old Trafford—141 runs after taking 5-72 in the first innings. However, he struggled with his right shoulder on the final day. 'Obviously it's disappointing not to be able to finish the series. I've got a decent tear of a muscle I can't pronounce,' Stokes said. 'We took as long as possible to make this decision... the risk was far too high.'
England's XI for the fifth Test includes Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (captain), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, and Josh Tongue.
