Islamabad, July 25, 2025: Rishabh Pant ruled out of the 5th Test in the India vs England series due to a toe injury, a major blow ahead of the high-stakes finale.
The fifth and final Test between India and England will begin on July 31, 2025 at The Oval, London. With England leading the series 2–1, India will be striving to level the contest, while the hosts look to seal a unforgettable home victory.
Team India have been dealt a major setback ahead of the fifth and final Test against England at The Oval, as star wicket keeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been officially sidelined. The 27 year old suffered a fractured toe during the fourth Test in Manchester, confirmed by sources and has been advised six weeks of rest, ruling him out of action for the series finale.
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Pant had boldly come out to bat during the fourth Test despite the injury, scoring a tenacious 54 but could not play role as wicket keeper. Dhruv Jurel, who has already taken over behind the wicket, will continue in that role for the fifth Test series. With Pant sidelined, India has named N Jagadeesan as the backup wicket keeper for the final Test.
India falls behind 2–1 in the five-match series, making the fifth Test, a must-win to equalize the contest. The team will now have to rethink their lineup, especially in the middle order, where Pant’s batting has provided the edge. The absence of his aggressive stroke-play and leadership in tough moments has left a significant gap. Former players and analysts have already noted how his absence could tip the momentum towards England, with Michael Vaughan calling it a 25% shift in England’s favour.
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Despite the setback, India will look to comeback strongly. Captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid are expected to support younger talent and adjust the middle order to maintain balance. With the series and pride on the line, the fifth Test is shaping up to be a thrilling finale.
