England captain Ben Stokes has admitted that it is “very unlikely” he will bowl in the upcoming fifth Test at The Oval due to a bicep tendon issue, but he has made it clear that he intends to be available for selection and lead his side in the series decider. Despite the injury, Stokes reaffirmed his commitment to contribute in any way possible as England aim to seal the series against India.
Stokes has shouldered a heavy workload throughout the series, delivering more than 140 overs and taking 17 wickets, the most by any bowler in the contest so far. His intense spells, especially in the fourth Test at Old Trafford, left him visibly sore, and the bicep problem flared during the final day when he opted to stop bowling after lunch. The captain revealed that while the tendon issue has been painful, it has not worsened since the last match, and he is determined to take the field regardless of his bowling capacity.
“I don’t want to eat my words, but the likelihood I won’t play is very unlikely,” Stokes said. “Pain is just an emotion. If I can walk out and give my team what they need as a batter and captain, I’ll do it.” His comments underline his willingness to put the team first, even if it means playing as a specialist batsman and leaving the bowling to the rest of the attack.
With Stokes unlikely to contribute with the ball, England’s selectors face the challenge of balancing their bowling resources. Jofra Archer, Chris Woakes, and Brydon Carse have all been used extensively in the series, prompting discussions about adding fresh pace options such as Jamie Overton or Josh Tongue to share the workload. Managing the attack will be crucial as England aim to avoid fatigue in the final match.
The Oval Test, starting July 31, carries enormous stakes with England leading the series 2–1. Stokes’s presence, even as a batter, is seen as vital for the team’s balance and morale. His leadership and ability to steady the innings under pressure provide a psychological edge in a match that could define the summer.
For Stokes, this situation is another chapter in a career defined by resilience and selflessness. Playing through discomfort is not new to him, and his declaration that he is ready to “run through a brick wall” for England underscores his competitive spirit. While his absence as a bowler will undoubtedly be felt, his decision to play in any capacity highlights his importance beyond just statistics.
As the series heads into its climax, Stokes’s injury will remain under close watch. Whether he bowls or not, his presence at The Oval promises to be a defining factor in a high-pressure contest that could hinge on leadership and mental toughness as much as skill.