Jack Leach ruled out of 2nd Test against India due to knee injury.

England faced a setback with the news of star spinner Jack Leach being sidelined for the second Test against India due to a left knee injury. England captain Ben Stokes confirmed Leach’s injury, attributing it to a haematoma.

As the most experienced spinner in the squad with 36 Test matches under his belt, Leach’s absence leaves a significant void. Rehan Ahmed has only played two matches, while Tom Hartley debuted in the first Test in Hyderabad. Shoaib Bashir, a recent addition to the England camp, is yet to make his international debut. In light of this, former captain Joe Root might need to assume the role of lead spinner, with the others supporting him.

Stokes mentioned that Leach’s condition is under constant monitoring, expressing hope for his swift recovery. Leach reportedly sustained the injury on the second day of the first Test. Despite bowling 26 overs in the first innings and ten in the next, he missed Wednesday’s training session, prompting confirmation of his unavailability by the England skipper.

Stokes said “He’s ruled out of the second Test. Unfortunately, the knock he took resulted in a haematoma. It’s a big shame for us and a big shame for him. It’s something we’re assessing every day but the medical team have taken over on that, so hopefully it’s not something too serious that keeps him out for longer.”

Bashir, a 20-year-old talent, emerges as a strong contender to replace Leach in the playing XI, having showcased promise with ten wickets in six first-class matches.

Hartley made an impressive debut in the previous Test, unsettling the Indian batters. England will look to him to replicate that performance and potentially secure a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.