England v India: Ishant Sharma Expected Set to Return for Fifth Test

India bowler Ishant Sharma is set to return to the tourists' attack for the fifth Test against England at The Oval after recovering from a leg injury.

Sharma has not played since India's historic win over England at Lord's after picking up a leg injury but has been bowling at full speed in the nets in preparation for the Oval Test.

The seamer was man of the match in India's first win at Lord's in 28 years earlier this summer, taking 7-74 in a 95-run win and captain MS Dhoni will be hoping Sharma can help salvage the series with India trailing 2-1.

In his absence England have blown away India, firstly by a huge 266 runs margin in the third Test at the Ageas Bowl and then by an innings and 54 runs in the fourth at Old Trafford.

Although the return of Sharma to coach Duncan Fletcher's line-up would be a much needed boost, concerns have been raised over the India batting line-up.

India have failed to put on a 50-run opening stand in eight Tests matches, with Gautam Gambhir making just four and 18 in Manchester upon his recall.

In a fitness boost for England, bowler Stuart Broad is expected to feature despite suffering a broken nose in the fourth Test.

Broad came through practise unscathed on Thursday while wearing a bridge across his nose, with the Nottinghamshire player avoiding having to wear a protective mask at the Oval.

The selectors therefore must choose between Chris Woakes and Steven Finn for the final bowling spot, with Chris Jordan's impressive display at Old Trafford expected to see him retained.