India vs England: 5th Test Preview

India and England are set to clash at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala on 7 March in what will be the fifth and final Test of the Anthony de Mello Trophy 2024. With India already securing the series in Ranchi, the spotlight now shifts to their quest for World Test Championship dominance. Anticipation mounts for a gripping encounter between two cricketing giants amidst the breathtaking backdrop of Dharamsala.

The pitch and the chilly conditions, akin to England's climate, have become the focal points ahead of the match. Notably, both Ravichandran Ashwin and Jonny Bairstow are poised to mark their 100th Test appearances, each offering contrasting perspectives on the playing surface. Bairstow, finding the pitch 'nice,' stands in contrast to Ashwin's observation, hinting at the teams' anticipation of the unfamiliar territory.

HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala: Pitch Report

Ahead of the game, the pitch presents a flat appearance, yet lurking moisture beneath promises early assistance to pacers throughout the match. Despite the venue's historical inclination towards fast bowling, spinners are expected to hold significance, reminiscent of India's triumph over Australia in 2017. The anticipated maximum temperature of 10 degrees Celsius during the initial days is expected to rise gradually as the weekend approaches. 

IND vs ENG Probable Playing XI

India

India are expected to maintain their bowling combination with two pacers and three spinners. Jasprit Bumrah's return will strengthen the pace attack alongside Mohammed Siraj. In the spin department, Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav, who debuted successfully here in 2017 but has played only 11 Tests since, will share responsibilities. This unchanged lineup will boost India's confidence in their bowling arsenal for the crucial encounter.

Predicted XI: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar/Devdutt Padikkal, Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah

England

England have announced their XI with Mark Wood returning in place of Ollie Robinson, while James Anderson retained his spot. Ben Stokes-led England have opted for pacers' rotation throughout the series, continuing the trend in the last match. The selection shuffle has been England's strategy to keep their bowling attack fresh and adaptable in the face of Indian conditions.

Playing XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes (c) Ben Foakes (wk), Tom Hartley, Mark Wood, James Anderson, Shoaib Bashir.

IND vs ENG Head-to-Head Record in Tests:

IND vs ENG, 5th Test Broadcast Details: