Team India will be aiming to level the ongoing five-match Test series against England when the final encounter gets underway at The Oval on July 31.

With England currently leading the series 2-1, the visitors will need a strong performance, and several changes are expected in their lineup for the decider.

Former cricketer Wasim Jaffer has revealed his preferred playing XI for the crucial clash, and it notably excludes star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Instead, Kuldeep Yadav finds a place in the squad.

Bumrah to Be Rested

On July 30, Jaffer posted his suggested XI on his official X (formerly Twitter) account.

The absence of Jasprit Bumrah from the lineup caught attention, aligning with reports that the senior fast bowler may be rested for the final Test.

In his place, Jaffer has picked Akash Deep, who missed the fourth Test due to a back issue.

Another notable inclusion is Arshdeep Singh, the left-arm pacer. Jaffer has opted to drop Anshul Kamboj, who made his debut in the previous match.

All-rounder Shardul Thakur has also been left out of Jaffer’s playing XI. The veteran batter has instead given the nod to Kuldeep Yadav, who has yet to feature in the series.

With growing calls from experts and reports suggesting a likely appearance for the wrist-spinner, his inclusion in Jaffer’s side reflects wider expectations from fans and analysts alike.

My India XI for Oval Test:

1. Yashasvi
2. KL
3. Sai
4. Shubman (c)
5. Jurel (wk)
6. Jadeja
7. Washington
8. Kuldeep
9. Siraj
10. Arshdeep
11. Akashdeep

What's yours? #ENGvIND

— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) July 30, 2025

— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) July 30, 2025