Stokes' Absence Looms Large as India Prepares for Final Test

Ahead of the final Test in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, India's skipper Shubman Gill acknowledges the absence of England's Ben Stokes as a major disadvantage for the hosts. Gill also praises Sai Sudharsan and Washington Sundar for their impactful performances in the ongoing series.

Ahead of the decisive fifth Test against England at The Oval, Indian captain Shubman Gill highlighted the absence of England's Ben Stokes as a significant setback for the home team. Stokes, owing to a right shoulder injury, will miss the final fixture of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

Stokes has been instrumental in England's campaign throughout the series, excelling as both a batsman and bowler during high-pressure situations. Across four matches, he accumulated 304 runs at an average of 43.42, which includes a century, and took 17 wickets—more than any other player in the series.

Gill praised the Indian talent Saj Sudharsan, who scored a significant fifty in the previous test, and highlighted Washington Sundar's contributions with both bat and ball. Sundar has proven vital, scoring 673 runs in 12 matches at an average of 44.86 and taking 32 wickets, improving India's lower middle-order strength.

(With inputs from agencies.)