Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test Ahead of IND vs ENG 4th Test; Morkel, Physio Monitoring Closely
Team India’s preparations for the crucial fourth Test against England at Old Trafford have been hit by a series of injury concerns, headlined by pacer Akash Deep’s ongoing groin issue. The young right-arm quick, who impressed in the second and third Tests, is undergoing a fitness assessment ahead of the must-win fixture starting July 23 in Manchester. Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test
This comes after all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy was officially ruled out of the remainder of the five-match series due to a left knee injury, and left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh was sidelined after suffering a hand injury in the nets that required stitches. Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test
🔎 Akash Deep’s Fitness Test: Morne Morkel Observes Closely
On Monday, Akash Deep was seen bowling a short spell at practice, with India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel closely monitoring his run-up, rhythm, and intensity. The team physio also watched from the sidelines, indicating a formal fitness assessment session. Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test
Akash reportedly bowled from James Anderson’s End, showing decent rhythm but still being evaluated for full match fitness. According to team sources, his availability will depend on how well he recovers from the groin niggle and if he can sustain match-level intensity. Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test
The decision on whether Akash plays will be taken 24–48 hours before the match, depending on the feedback from Morkel and the medical staff. Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test
⚠️ Injury List: India’s Pace Battery Hit Hard
India is currently grappling with an injury crisis, particularly among its pace bowling department:
| Player | Injury | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Akash Deep | Groin niggle | Under fitness test |
| Nitish Kumar Reddy | Left knee injury (gym session) | Ruled out of series |
| Arshdeep Singh | Hand injury (nets, stitches) | Ruled out of 4th Test |
| Jasprit Bumrah | Rested (workload management) | Likely to return |
| Mohammed Siraj | Heavy workload, under monitoring | Available |
❌ Nitish Kumar Reddy: Ruled Out
Young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy is officially out of the remainder of the England series. He sustained a left knee injury during a mobility training session held indoors in Manchester, where the Indian team had to train due to persistent rain. Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test
The scans confirmed damage that requires rest and rehab, effectively ruling him out of the 4th and 5th Tests. His absence removes an important balance option for India, especially with his dual ability as a lower-order batter and medium-pace bowler. Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test
🚫 Arshdeep Singh Injury: Freak Accident
Arshdeep Singh’s injury came as a freak incident during net practice. He was struck on his bowling hand by a shot from Sai Sudharsan, resulting in a laceration that required stitches. This development puts him out of contention for the 4th Test, and his status for the 5th Test remains unclear. Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test
It’s a significant blow, considering the management was keen to test Arshdeep’s red-ball potential in seamer-friendly English conditions. Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test
🔁 Squad Update: Anshul Kamboj Added as Cover
With Arshdeep and Reddy ruled out and Akash Deep uncertain, selectors have drafted Anshul Kamboj, a young pacer from Haryana, into the squad. Kamboj has earned praise in domestic cricket for his control and seam movement and will act as injury cover. Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test
While he may not be part of the playing XI immediately, his addition ensures India has enough backup options in case Akash Deep is not passed fit. Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test
💬 What Coach Morne Morkel Brings to the Table
South African legend Morne Morkel, appointed as bowling coach ahead of the England series, has been a hands-on presence during practice sessions. His experience in English conditions, having played for Surrey and in multiple Test tours, has proven valuable in helping India’s pace attack understand how to exploit the Dukes ball.
Morkel’s decision will be crucial in the Akash Deep call, as the team needs to avoid worsening the groin injury with overexertion. India has already taken a cautious approach to injuries, evident from their management of Bumrah and Siraj. Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test
🏏 What It Means for the XI in 4th Test
If Akash Deep is ruled out, India may be forced to reshuffle their bowling unit again. Possible scenarios include:
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Shardul Thakur coming into the XI as a seam-bowling all-rounder.
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Jasprit Bumrah returning to lead the attack after his workload break.
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Playing two spinners (Ashwin and Jadeja) depending on the pitch and weather conditions.
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Mukesh Kumar returning if India opts for a third seamer.
This makes the 4th Test even more crucial, not just in terms of series momentum, but in testing India’s bench strength.
📍 IND vs ENG Series Status
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Series: India leads 2-1
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4th Test: July 23–27, Old Trafford, Manchester
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5th Test: July 31–August 4, The Oval, London
🗣️ Final Word
The Akash Deep fitness test ahead of IND vs ENG 4th Test could become a turning point in India’s campaign. With two frontline pacers unavailable and one undergoing assessment, India’s fast-bowling reserves are being stretched. Akash Deep Undergoes Fitness Test
Morne Morkel and the support staff now have the tough task of ensuring the right call is made. Akash Deep’s inclusion could bolster the attack, but his long-term fitness must also be prioritized.
India still has the upper hand in the series, but injury management and tactical planning will be the keys to sealing the series in Manchester.
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