Ben Stokes’ Shoulder Injury Keeps Him Out of England’s Fifth Test vs India

Three Lions captain Ben Stokes is not taking part in the fifth Test between England and India starting on Thursday, July 31. This is the last game in the five-match series between the two elite cricket teams. After the first four matches, England are winning 2-1 (a draw was recorded in the fourth game), and it will now become clear whether they will be the series winner or whether India will manage to level the score.

What Happened to Stokes 

Before the fifth Test, it was reported that the England coaching staff had ruled out all-rounder Ben Stokes from the roster. The reason for this was a shoulder injury. This is a serious loss for the Three Lions, as the team captain was recognized as Player of the Match in the third and fourth games. His injury was caused by overuse in the fourth Test, when the 33-year-old cricketer had to bowl 35 overs in total in the final innings. He repeatedly clung to his right shoulder, and the medical staff examined Stokes after the match, finding the injury.

Roster changes 

In addition to Stokes, pacers Brydon Carse and Jofra Archer, and spinner Liam Dawson are absent for the fifth game. Ollie Pope has been made captain, and Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue, and Jacob Bethell have been included in the starting XI.