India ended Day 1 of the final Test at The Oval on 204/6, led by Karun Nair’s unbeaten 52. England dominated early under overcast skies, but faced a setback as Chris Woakes suffered a possible shoulder dislocation. Rain limited play to 64 overs, with India slightly ahead after a tough day.
England’s hopes took a hit on Day 1 of the fifth and final Test at The Oval as India posted 204 for 6 in rain-hit conditions. The day belonged to Karun Nair, who scored a composed unbeaten 52, while Sai Sudharsan contributed a gritty 38.
After being put in to bat under cloudy skies, India struggled early against disciplined English pace. Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue claimed two wickets each, while Chris Woakes chipped in with one before rain restricted play to just 64 overs. Despite the interruptions and regular wickets, Nair stood tall and found support from Washington Sundar (19*), steering India to a respectable position by stumps.
England’s bowling attack suffered a major scare late in the day when Chris Woakes appeared to injure his shoulder in the 57th over. Initial reports suggest a possible dislocation, which could sideline him for the remainder of the match and possibly longer. With regular captain Ben Stokes already unavailable, this injury leaves England’s bowling resources stretched as they look to fight back in the final Test of the series.
Play was called off early on Day 2 due to poor light, with England unable to continue with pace and Ollie Pope declining to bowl spin. It brought an end to a thrilling day of Test cricket that saw 15 wickets fall, keeping the contest finely poised heading into Day 3.
Sai Sudharsan was dismissed for 11 after missing a low delivery from Gus Atkinson that angled into middle and leg. Struck below the knee roll, the ball was clearly heading for the stumps, and the on-field decision stood despite a review. Atkinson struck with precision, giving England a timely breakthrough.
Yashasvi Jaiswal reached his half-century in stunning fashion, ramping a short ball from Jamie Overton over the keeper for six. Dug in around middle, Jaiswal leaned back and timed it perfectly. This is his first fifty in the second innings of the series, showcasing both flair and confidence under pressure.
KL Rahul’s cautious innings came to an end on 7 as he edged a loose shot to Joe Root in the slips off Josh Tongue. After doing the hard work early on, Rahul played away from his body and paid the price, gifting England a crucial breakthrough.
Yashasvi Jaiswal showed no hesitation against Jamie Overton, hammering a short ball for a six over point. The delivery slanted away outside off, but Jaiswal rose on his toes and cut it fiercely behind point. The timing was spot on, and the ball sailed comfortably over the ropes.