England has suffered a major blow ahead of the series-deciding fifth Test against India, with captain Ben Stokes ruled out due to a grade‑three tear in his right shoulder, confirmed today by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) .

Stokes was Player of the Match in both the third and fourth Tests—scoring 141 and taking six wickets at Old Trafford - but sustained the injury during a heavy bowling workload. England opted against risking further damage despite his intent to play as a batter.

Vice-captain Ollie Pope has been named captain for the Oval Test. England has made four changes: Jacob Bethell returns at No. 6, joined by seamers Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, and Josh Tongue. Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, and spinner Liam Dawson have been rested.

Stokes faces a six-seven week recovery, targeting a comeback in the upcoming Ashes series in Australia. Despite the setback, England heads into the final Test holding a 2–1 lead in the series.