Both Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh have reportedly suffered knocks and that has jeopardized their chances for playing in the upcoming encounter. Arshdeep suffered an injury while training, but Akash Deep is struggling with a groin issue.
The Bengal pacer picked up 10 wickets in the 2nd Test at Edgbaston, playing a crucial part in the victory for the team. Amid this, his groin injury means India's team management faces a pivotal decision regarding the composition of their pace attack.
1. Anshul Kamboj
Anshul Kamboj, the Haryana fast bowler, has been drafted into the squad as cover for the injured seamers. Although yet to make his Test debut, Kamboj impressed the selectors with his recent India A performances. He showcased his ability to take wickets on English soil, notably during the unofficial Tests against England Lions, and brought lower-order resilience with the bat, underlining his all-round potential.
2. Shardul Thakur
Shardul Thakur stands as the most experienced among the alternatives. Known for his knack of breaking partnerships and swinging the momentum, Thakur was part of India's playing XI in the previous Tests. In the recent Leeds Test, Thakur's timely breakthroughs in the second innings, including key wickets of Ben Duckett and Harry Brook, highlighted his value in English conditions, despite being underutilized earlier in the match. His lower-order batting adds crucial balance to the side.
3. Prasidh Krishna
Prasidh Krishna has emerged as one of India's most promising fast bowlers in recent times. Coming off an excellent IPL 2025 season as the highest wicket-taker with Gujarat Titans (25 wickets in 15 matches at an average of less than 20), Prasidh's sharp bounce and disciplined seam bowling make him especially suited to conditions at Old Trafford. Although the India pacer played the first two matches, (6 wickets in 2 matches, economy 5.34) he was dropped from the Lord's encounter to facilitate Jasprit Bumrha's return to the side. But if Akash Deep is unavailable, team management may revert back to Krishna.
IND vs ENG: Who will replace Akash Deep?
With the series delicately poised, India must strike a balance between experience and form. Thakur brings reliability and depth, Prasidh raw pace and recent performance, while Kamboj represents a bold, rewarding gamble. The final call may rest on pitch conditions, the team's confidence in debutants under pressure, and the need for batting depth lower in the order.