Stokes to miss series decider

THE OVAL: SHOULDER INJURY DOWNS ENGLAND CAPTAIN

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England captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out of the fifth and deciding Test against India with a shoulder injury in a devastating blow for the home side.

The England and Wales Cricket Board said vice-captain Ollie Pope would lead the team in the match at the Oval starting today, with England 2-1 up in the series.

All-rounder Stokes has struggled with various fitness issues in the four Tests against India so far, during which he has sent down 140 overs—the most he has bowled in any series.

The 34-year-old, who is the leading wicket-taker on either side with 17 scalps, has injured his right shoulder, his bowling arm, and it is understood he could need up to 10 weeks to recover.