Jamie Overton Called Up for Decisive Fifth Test Against India

England have added fast-bowling all-rounder Jamie Overton to their squad ahead of the crucial fifth Test against India at The Oval, as concerns grow over the fatigue in their pace attack following a drawn fourth Test at Old Trafford.

Overton’s Return Adds Depth to Exhausted Pace Unit

Overton, whose only Test cap came in 2022, has been brought in to reinforce a bowling attack that toiled for 143 overs across two days in Manchester. England’s bowlers appeared visibly drained as India batted out for a draw, forcing selectors to seek backup.

Captain Ben Stokes stressed the importance of having “fresh legs” available, especially given the short turnaround between matches.

Rotation Likely as Stokes Manages Resources

The fifth Test begins Thursday, giving the squad just four days of recovery. Stokes admitted that although he had his own injury issues during the fourth Test, it is “very unlikely” that he will miss the series finale.

Meanwhile, Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse have featured in all four Tests, while Jofra Archer made a return in two matches after a long injury layoff. With the bowlers running low on energy, squad rotation appears almost certain.

New Faces in Contention for The Oval Clash

Overton joins pace options Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue in the squad. All three remain in contention for selection in the playing XI for the Oval Test. While Atkinson and Tongue have shown promise, their limited Test experience could make team selection a balancing act between freshness and reliability.

Both Overton and Atkinson are familiar with the conditions at The Oval, being Surrey teammates, but they have yet to prove themselves consistently at the international level.

High Stakes Heading into Series Decider

With the series tied and a victory up for grabs, England will be aiming to end on a high note at home. India, equally determined, are expected to challenge fiercely, making team composition and energy levels crucial factors in determining the final outcome.

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FAQs

Q1: Why was Jamie Overton added to the England squad?
To provide a fresh pace option for the fifth Test after England’s bowlers appeared fatigued in the fourth Test.

Q2: When and where is the fifth Test taking place?
It starts Thursday at The Oval, London.

Q3: Who are the other pace bowlers in the squad?
Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue, and Gus Atkinson are part of the pace options.

Q4: Has Jamie Overton played for England before?
Yes, he made his only Test appearance in 2022.

Q5: Will Ben Stokes play in the fifth Test?
Stokes has injury concerns but has said it is “very unlikely” he will miss the final Test.