August 2, 2025

India displayed remarkable resilience on day two of the fifth Test against England at The Kia Oval, ending the day with a 52-run lead. After a disappointing first innings where they were bowled out for 224, the tourists focused on a comeback that has reignited hopes for a series-drawing win. England’s first innings saw standout performance from Gus Atkinson, who took 5 wickets for 33 runs. However, their momentum slowed in the second innings largely due to poor fielding — three dropped catches allowed India to recover. They finished the day at 75 for 2. The match began with England looking dominant. They reached 92 without losing a wicket, capitalizing on India’s lack of form in the morning. Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett put on a strong opening partnership, but Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna led India's comeback. Siraj claimed 4 wickets, effectively dismantling England’s batting order, while Krishna contributed with 3 key dismissals, including that of Joe Root, further applying pressure. India’s early collapse left them vulnerable, but they regrouped during the second innings, led by the steady hands of Yashasvi Jaiswal, who ended the day not out at 51. However, it was the chaotic day filled with tensions and controversies that truly stole the show. Akash Deep’s send-off to Duckett after the latter was dismissed sparked a confrontation, leading to umpire intervention. This intensity was expected, given the competitive nature of the series that has seen tensions rise multiple times. Despite England’s explosive start, the inability to secure catches proved detrimental. Hodgson's fielding mistakes allowed Jaiswal, who was given 2 lives, to settle into his innings and build a solid partnership. In a day filled with dramatic swings of momentum, Siraj's bowling helped regain control of the match for India. Compounding England’s woes was the injury to Chris Woakes, who may miss the remainder of the Test and upcoming Ashes series due to a shoulder dislocation. Woakes's absence was evident, as England struggled to capitalize on early advantages without their seasoned bowler. As day three awaits, there is anticipation about how England will respond to level the series. India, on the other hand, is determined to maintain their lead. The match remains evenly poised, and both teams will be looking to capitalize on their strengths going forward. The atmosphere at The Kia Oval is electric, and cricket fans around the world are in for an exciting showdown in the remaining days of this Test match. The stakes are high, and everything is set for a thrilling conclusion to the fifth Test.

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Tags: Cricket, India, England, Fifth test, Series, Mohammed siraj, Gus atkinson,