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Manchester, England - India's hopes of levelling the series against England in the must-win fourth Test at Old Trafford have been dealt a blow as key players were conspicuously absent from the team's optional training session. Rain disrupted the proceedings, forcing the squad indoors, but the absence of Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike.

The absence of Shubman Gill, who has been struggling with a viral infection, was expected. However, the lack of participation from both Jasprit Bumrah, India's premier fast bowler, and KL Rahul, the wicketkeeper-batsman, has sparked considerable discussion. While the team management has remained tight-lipped regarding the reasons for their absence, speculation is rife about potential injuries or strategic decisions.

Bumrah's Fitness a Major Concern

Bumrah's fitness is paramount for India's bowling attack. His ability to generate pace and bounce has been crucial in past encounters against England. If he is not at his best, it could significantly weaken India's chances of dismissing the English batting lineup. The team will be hoping that his absence from the nets is merely precautionary and that he will be fit to play in the crucial match.

Rahul's Form Under Scrutiny

KL Rahul's form has been a constant source of debate throughout the series. While he showed signs of improvement in the previous Test, his inconsistency remains a concern. The absence of net practice could potentially impact his confidence and preparation. India desperately needs Rahul to fire at the top of the order to provide a solid platform for the middle order.

Rain's Impact on Preparation

The inclement weather in Manchester has undoubtedly hampered India's preparations. Limited time on the ground means less opportunity to fine-tune strategies and assess the pitch conditions. The Old Trafford surface is known for its unpredictable nature, and the lack of practice could make it difficult for the batsmen to adapt.

Must-Win Scenario

With England leading the series 2-1, this fourth Test is a virtual knockout for India. A defeat would mean relinquishing the series and facing a difficult road ahead. The pressure is on the Indian team to deliver a strong performance and secure a victory. The absence of key players adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging situation.

Looking Ahead

The team management will need to make some astute decisions in the lead-up to the match. Whether they will bring in replacements for the missing players or stick with the existing lineup remains to be seen. One thing is certain: India will need a collective effort from all its players to overcome the challenges and secure a vital victory at Old Trafford. The fans back home will be anxiously awaiting an update on the fitness of their star players and hoping for a turnaround in the series.