Stokes, Archer out as England announces four changes in squad for fifth Test against India

London [UK], July 30 (ANI): Skipper Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the England squad for the fifth and final Test against India due to a right shoulder injury, with Ollie Pope set to lead the side in his absence.

In this series with the bat, Stokes has made 304 runs in seven innings at an average of 43.42, with a century to his name. With a ball in hand, Stokes has been merciless, relentless, producing miracles effortlessly. He is the leading wicket-taker in the series with 17 scalps at an average of 25.23, with best figures of 5/72 and has also taken a four-fer. He has also won two Player of the Match awards.

The fifth and final Test of the series will take place from Thursday onwards, with the series in favour of England by 2-1 following a hard-fought draw by India at Old Trafford in Manchester. India would not be able to win the series in England, something they last did back in 2007, but they have a chance to bow out with their heads held high and series levelled.

Also missing out are spinner Liam Dawson and pace bowlers Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse.

So far in the series, Archer has taken nine wickets in two Tests at an average of 28.66, with best figures of 3/55. Carse has featured in all four Tests, taking nine wickets at an average of over 60, while also contributing 164 runs in six innings, including a half-century.

Dawson made his return to Tests after eight years at Manchester, but could take only one wicket and contributed 26 with the bat.

England has included all-rounder Jacob Bethell, who will bat at number six, who is also the sole spin option for the hosts. Surrey bowlers Gus Atkinson and Jamie Overton come into the side, along with Nottinghamshire quick Josh Tongue. Tongue last featured in the Birmingham Test and so far has taken 11 wickets at an average of 33.63, with best figures of 33.63.

England line-up:

1. Zak Crawley

2. Ben Duckett

3. Ollie Pope (c)

4. Joe Root

5. Harry Brook

6. Jacob Bethell

7. Jamie Smith (wk)

8. Chris Woakes

9. Gus Atkinson

10. Jamie Overton

11. Josh Tongue. (ANI)

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