India mounted a stirring comeback in the post-lunch session on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test at The Oval, reducing England to 242 for 8 before rain halted their charge late in the day. Despite England taking a slender 18-run lead in the first innings, the visitors clawed their way back into the contest with a disciplined bowling display after being outplayed in the morning.
Resuming at 109 for 1 after a dominant first session, England seemed poised to build a substantial lead. However, India struck back with relentless pressure, claiming six wickets for just 106 runs in the second session. The turnaround was triggered by sharper bowling lines, improved field placements, and a visible shift in body language after lunch.
India had earlier been dismissed for 224 earlier in the day, with England’s pacers wrapping up the tail efficiently after resuming from the overnight score of 204 for 6. The home side began their reply with a blistering start, thanks to the aggressive opening partnership between Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett. But the momentum shifted sharply as the Indian bowlers tightened their lines and the pitch began to offer subtle assistance.
At tea, England were 215 for 7, and though they had eked out a slim lead, their batting order was in tatters. Shortly after the interval, India picked up the eighth wicket, Gus Atkinson, who had earlier impressed with the ball, claiming a maiden five-wicket haul. His dismissal left England teetering with just one recognized batter remaining.
England’s hopes now rest heavily on Harry Brook, who is batting on 48*, having shown commendable composure while wickets tumbled around him. Brook has been watchful yet assertive, and he’ll be tasked with stretching England’s lead with help from the last man in, Josh Tongue.
Chris Woakes, originally slated to bat at No. 9, has been ruled out of the remainder of the Test after suffering a shoulder injury on Day 1. As a result, Tongue will be the final batter available, adding to England’s concerns in what has been a rollercoaster day.
Rain arrived soon after the eighth wicket fell, forcing players off the field and delaying India’s push to wrap up the innings. With weather playing a part and the match delicately poised, the next phase promises high tension as both teams battle for the upper hand in this series-deciding encounter.
