India wrested control of the fifth and final Test at The Oval, finishing day two with a 52-run lead after a dramatic day that saw 15 wickets tumble and Yashasvi Jaiswal survive two drops on his way to an unbeaten half-century. (Also read: England Frustrated After Dropped Catches Hand India Advantage at The Oval)
England’s fielding lapses proved costly. Jaiswal, on 20 and 40, was given lifelines by Harry Brook in the slips and substitute fielder Liam Dawson at long leg. The young opener capitalized, reaching 51 not out from just 49 balls to leave India 75 for 2 in their second innings.
India’s first innings was a short one, bundled out for just 224 with Karun Nair the only batsman to show much fight with his 57. The day belonged to Gus Atkinson, though. Marking his return from a two-month injury layoff in style, he triggered a stunning late collapse, taking 5 for 33 as India lost their last four wickets for just six runs in a dizzying 18-ball spell.
At first, it looked like England were going to cruise. Crawley and Ben Duckett were flying, hammering 92 from just 77 deliveries to nearly erase the deficit. But the wheels came off when Duckett tried one ramp shot too many and fell for 43. Just like that, the energy drained from the innings, and the game felt completely different.
Siraj and Krishna just took over. They both grabbed four wickets and absolutely blew up the middle of the lineup. Seriously, England was cruising at 109 for 1, and the next thing you know, they’re all out for 247.
The only one who put up a fight was Harry Brook with his 53, but he eventually ran out of guys to bat with. In the end, all that work for a tiny 23-run lead.
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Prasidh admitted after play that his on-field exchange with Joe Root, who fell for 29, was part of India’s plan to disrupt England’s batting rhythm. Root’s dismissal came in a spell that also removed Ollie Pope and debutant Jacob Bethell, tightening India’s grip.
England’s missed chances in the field added to the pressure. Dawson’s drop in particular summed up the day. Without sunglasses in position, he appeared to lose the ball in the evening light, and the chance burst through his hands and struck his chest.
With Chris Woakes ruled out of the match due to a shoulder injury, England’s bowling resources are stretched. Josh Tongue provided control with 1 for 25 in the second innings, but India’s aggressive start and the extra 30 minutes of play set the tone heading into the weekend.
India limped to stumps at 75 for 2, leaving Jaiswal and the nightwatchman Akash Deep at the crease. The hosts are definitely on the back foot now, and the third day has become absolutely critical. Their only way back into this match is by taking wickets in the morning session, period.
