As India prepares for a do-or-die encounter in the fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, an ex-Chennai Super Kings star was back in the nets – none other than paceman Deepak Chahar. Though not part of the official Test squad, Chahar was seen bowling in the nets at The Oval on Wednesday, helping the team prepare to face England’s powerful pace attack.

Behind-the-Scenes Role Continues for Chahar

This is not Chahar’s first behind-the-scenes effort in the series. In the third Test at Lord’s, he had been with the Indian camp quietly, practicing in unofficial kit and bowling long spells to top batters. His capability to swing the ball both ways and keep a tight line has yielded useful simulation for the Indian batters leading into high-stakes games.

Although he was not officially summoned to the Test team, Chahar’s return has been timely. India’s bowling unit has been severely affected by injuries. Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh missed the fourth Test, and Jasprit Bumrah, with a minor knee issue, is expected to be rested for the last game as a precaution.

Injury Woes Deepen, Reinforcements Called In

India’s injury issues are not limited to the bowling department alone. Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the Oval Test after sustaining a fracture on his toe, and Dhruv Jurel has been roped in as his replacement as the stumper. To provide cover for the batting depth, Narayan Jagadeesan has been included, but the pace attack still manages with sparse resources.

Simulating English Conditions in Practice

Chahar’s attendance at training has added much-needed depth to the Indian practice sessions. His control, swing, and experience in English conditions make him a perfect practice partner as India look to simulate match situations in the nets. With the series in the balance, these sessions are crucial to get the batters ready for countering England’s seam attack.

India Hope to Level the Series at The Oval

India needs to win at The Oval to escape a series loss and level it 2-2. Having demonstrated wonderful grit during the Manchester Test when they batted out two entire days to claim a draw Shubman Gill’s team takes on the final with fresh confidence. Chahar’s understated but timely intervention might be small but crucial as India pursue equality in a closely contested series.