For the fourth Test against England, which started on Thursday at The Oval in London, India made a few alterations to their starting XI. Captain Virat Kohli revealed that fast bowlers Umesh Yadav and Shardul Thakur would replace Ishant Sharma and Mohammed Shami in the final XI during the toss.
In the fourth Test of the intense five-match series, India lost the toss for the fourth time, as Joe Root chose to bowl first. Ishant and Shami have been rested for the game, according to Captain Kohli, due to niggles. The visiting captain also stated that they would have bowled first if they could, but that they are better off batting first and putting some runs on the scoreboard.
“We would have bowled first as well but toss isn’t something you can control. Need to be prepared for either. We’re looking forward to putting runs on the board,” said Kohli.
“Two changes – Ishant and Shami have niggles – Umesh and Shardul are back. For us, it’s about partnerships, we can’t focus too much on individuals. England has four left-handers, so a good match-up for Jadeja, with our seamers bowling over the wicket. Also factors in his balance at No.7. The opening partnership has been amazing for us, it’s about getting together as batsmen. A few days left on this tour, the series is poised beautifully, and no shortage of effort, for sure,” he added.
England, on the other hand, has made a few changes to the team that overcame India at Headingley. Jos Buttler and Sam Curran were left out, with Ollie Pope and Chris Woakes taking their place.
“Going to make use of the overhead conditions. Looks like a good morning for bowling, we need to still hit the right lines and lengths, like we did at Headingley. We’ve got two changes – Ollie Pope in for Jos Buttler and Chris Woakes comes in for Sam Curran. Chris (Woakes) knows his body well and we all know about his performances. (On being the top-ranked batter). It does feel nice but obviously has no standing on this game,” Root said after winning the toss at the Oval.
