IIndia vs England 5th Test 2025– Final Clash Set for July 31, 2025 in London
As the highly anticipated five-match Test series between India and England draws to a close, all eyes now turn to the 5th and final Test match scheduled to begin on July 31, 2025 at the historic cricket ground in London. With the series hanging in the balance and national pride on the line, both teams are expected to bring their best to the field in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
The match is set to start at 3:30 PM IST, with fans around the globe eagerly awaiting this decisive battle. After weeks of intense cricket, momentum swings, and individual brilliance, this final Test has all the ingredients of a classic.
🏏 India’s Playing XI – A Balanced Side with Firepower and Depth For India vs England 5th Test 2025
The Indian team has announced a well-rounded playing XI, blending youth with experience and offering depth in both batting and bowling departments. Here’s a breakdown of India’s squad for the 5th Test:
India’s Probable Playing XI:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
The young left-handed opener has consistently given India solid starts in the series. His aggressive yet composed batting style is expected to play a crucial role at the top. - KL Rahul
Back in the Test squad after a brief injury layoff, Rahul brings experience and calmness at the top of the order. His ability to play both pace and spin will be key in English conditions. - B Sai Sudharsan
A fresh face in the Test arena, Sudharsan’s inclusion reflects India’s eye on the future. The Tamil Nadu batter has impressed in domestic cricket and will look to make an impact at the big stage. - Shubman Gill (Captain)
Leading the side in this crucial fixture, Gill’s form with the bat and leadership will be under the spotlight. The right-hander has matured into a dependable middle-order batsman. - Ravindra Jadeja
One of India’s most valuable assets, Jadeja contributes with both bat and ball. His all-round ability offers perfect balance to the side. - Washington Sundar
A spin-bowling all-rounder, Sundar has proven his worth with handy lower-order runs and economical bowling spells. His role will be vital in both departments. - Kuldeep Yadav
The chinaman bowler adds variety to India’s spin attack. On a track that might assist turn later in the match, Kuldeep’s wicket-taking ability could be a game-changer. - Jasprit Bumrah
India’s pace spearhead, Bumrah’s return is a massive boost for the team. Known for his lethal yorkers and ability to strike with the new ball, he will lead the pace battery. - Mohammed Siraj
A consistent performer, Siraj complements Bumrah with aggression and accuracy. He has evolved into one of India’s most dependable red-ball bowlers. - Arshdeep Singh
Arshdeep’s left-arm angle and swing have troubled batters throughout the series. His inclusion adds a new dimension to the bowling attack. - Shardul Thakur
Often dubbed “Lord Thakur” for his knack of picking crucial wickets and scoring vital runs, he adds depth and unpredictability to India’s lower order.
🏴 England’s Playing XI – A Mix of Experience and Exciting Young Talent For India vs England 5th Test 2025
The home team has also gone with a strong side that combines experienced players like Joe Root and Ben Stokes with young talents like Jacob Bethell and Gus Atkinson.
England’s Probable Playing XI:
- Zak Crawley
A key component of England’s top order, Crawley has the ability to take on fast bowlers and play long innings when in rhythm. - Ben Duckett
Known for his aggressive intent, Duckett adds flair to the opening slot. His fast scoring can put pressure on bowlers early on. - Jacob Bethell
A promising youngster, Bethell’s rise through the England A and county ranks has earned him a spot in the Test team. This will be a big moment for him. - Joe Root
A modern-day Test legend, Root will be central to England’s batting. His form and consistency are vital for the hosts. - Harry Brook
The explosive middle-order batter has already established himself as a future star. His attacking style could tilt the momentum quickly in England’s favour. - Ollie Pope
Another reliable name in England’s batting lineup, Pope is known for his technique and patience under pressure. - Ben Stokes (Captain)
England’s heartbeat, Stokes will lead from the front. Whether it’s an inspiring spell or a counter-attacking knock, expect fireworks from the skipper. - Chris Woakes
A true all-rounder, Woakes has always been effective in home conditions. His swing bowling and lower-order batting make him a valuable asset. - Jofra Archer
Back from injury, Archer’s pace and bounce can rattle any batting line-up. If fully fit, he could be England’s X-factor in the match. - Gus Atkinson
The young pacer has impressed with his pace and accuracy. He adds youthful energy and fresh aggression to the bowling unit. - Brydon Carse
A seam-bowling all-rounder, Carse rounds off the bowling attack with strength and control, and can chip in with useful lower-order runs.
🔍 Match Context & What’s at Stake
This fifth Test is not just the conclusion of a long series but also a decider, with both teams having traded wins and drawn matches across the previous four Tests. For India, a win would mean their first series victory in England in several years, while for England, it’s about defending home soil and continuing their resurgence under the Bazball strategy.
From a team composition standpoint, India is relying heavily on its all-rounders and spin department, while England is banking on the firepower of their pace battery and solid middle order.
đź’¬ Key Players to Watch
- Jasprit Bumrah (India) – Back in action and fresh, he could tear through the English top order if the conditions favour seam.
- Joe Root (England) – As always, Root’s form with the bat could decide the fate of England’s innings.
- Shubman Gill (India) – Leading from the front, his performance with the bat and decisions on the field will shape India’s chances.
- Ben Stokes (England) – Whether it’s a counter-attack or crucial breakthroughs, Stokes never fails to leave an impact.
đź“ş Where to Watch
The match will be broadcast live on Star Sports Network and streamed digitally on Disney+ Hotstar, starting at 3:30 PM IST.
đź“ť Final Thoughts
With both sides evenly matched and the series outcome hanging in the balance, this 5th Test promises to be a spectacle for cricket lovers. India’s young blood meets England’s home advantage in what could be a modern classic. Expect twists, turns, and a few unforgettable moments as these two giants clash for one final time in this gripping Test series.