The fifth and final Test between India and England is underway at The Oval in London. After opting to bat first, India was bundled out for 224 runs in their first innings. Karun Nair scored a gritty half-century, but the highlight of the day was Gus Atkinson, who delivered a stunning five-wicket haul to dismantle India’s batting order.
Day Two Begins with Quick Collapse
Day two began with India resuming at 204/6, but the team failed to add stability. Within the first 30 minutes of play, India lost four quick wickets and could only add 20 runs to their overnight score. England’s pacers, especially Atkinson, maintained relentless pressure with the ball.
Karun Nair Leads with 57, Dismissed Early on Day Two
Karun Nair, who resumed the innings on day two, played a valuable knock of 57 runs off 109 balls. He struck a few crisp boundaries early in the morning, but fell to a delivery from Josh Tongue. The ball seamed in and trapped Nair leg-before-wicket.
His dismissal marked the beginning of a rapid downfall for India.
Washington Sundar Departs After Steady Start
Washington Sundar looked composed at the crease, adding 26 runs from 55 deliveries. However, he too fell victim to Atkinson’s disciplined line and length. Sundar edged one to Jamie Overton, giving England their eighth breakthrough.
Gus Atkinson Rattles India with a Five-Wicket Haul
Atkinson’s spell was the turning point of India’s innings. After Sundar’s dismissal, he cleaned up Mohammed Siraj with a peach of a delivery. He then forced Prasidh Krishna to edge one behind to Jamie Smith, sealing India’s innings at 224.
This was Atkinson’s fourth career five-wicket haul in Test cricket and arguably one of his most impactful ones, given the match context.
Oval Pitch Offers Pace and Bounce
The Oval’s surface offered considerable help to pace bowlers right from day one. Experts observed that the assistance for fast bowlers on this pitch was more than any other day in the series so far.
India may look to exploit this advantage, especially with Chris Woakes ruled out due to a shoulder injury. England now has just three fit pace options, which could work in India’s favor.
Chris Woakes Ruled Out of Final Test Due to Injury
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that Chris Woakes will play no further role in the match. The all-rounder sustained a shoulder injury on the first day and left the field. While he may return for fielding duties, he won’t bowl again in this Test.
This development is a significant blow to England, especially considering Woakes’ record at home.
Weather Conditions Clear, Rain Threat Later
As day two began, clear skies and sunshine welcomed players at The Oval. According to forecasts, the game started on time with no delays. However, there is a slight chance of rain later in the day which may impact the match’s progression.
Day Two Begins at 3:30 PM IST (11 AM Local Time)
The day’s play resumed on schedule, with the first ball bowled at 3:30 PM IST. England now takes the field to begin their first innings, trailing by 224 runs.
Match Context: Series Decider at The Oval
This fifth Test holds significant importance as the series is finely balanced. India and England have produced thrilling encounters throughout the series. With the series on the line, both teams are under pressure to perform.
India would be disappointed with their batting performance, especially after winning key moments in previous games. The middle-order collapse is something the team management would closely analyze.
England, on the other hand, will look to capitalize on Atkinson’s momentum and build a strong response with the bat. However, their thinner bowling lineup—without Woakes—could hurt them later in the match.
Brief Score Summary After India’s First Innings
-
India 224 all out in 75.2 overs
-
Karun Nair: 57 (109 balls)
-
Washington Sundar: 26 (55 balls)
-
Gus Atkinson: 5 wickets for 52 runs
-
Josh Tongue: 2 wickets
-
Jamie Overton: 1 wicket
England is yet to bat at the time of publishing.
What’s Next: England’s Reply Crucial
England’s first innings response will be vital. A solid start could put India on the back foot. The pitch is still fresh and offers bounce and seam movement, so India’s fast bowlers must deliver early breakthroughs.
Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, and Prasidh Krishna will lead the pace attack for India. Meanwhile, Ravichandran Ashwin and Washington Sundar could come into play later as the pitch wears down.
India will be hoping to restrict England under 250 to stay competitive in this crucial Test match.
India’s batting collapse on day two was a major setback. With only Karun Nair showing resistance, the rest of the batting lineup failed to contribute significantly. Atkinson’s five-wicket haul was a class act, proving decisive in limiting India.
Now, with England preparing to bat, the pressure shifts to the Indian bowlers. For fans and analysts alike, day two promises more action, and possibly, a shift in momentum.
Stay tuned for more India vs England 5th Test LIVE Updates, as the drama at The Oval continues to unfold.
