England vs India, 5th Test at London, ENG vs IND, Jul 31 2025

India must win this Test to level the series against England

England have won 2 Tests, India have won 1, and one ended in a draw. This is the fifth and final Test of the series between England and India. The match ended with India losing 6 wickets and posting 204 runs on the board. India must win this Test to level the series.

A 50-run partnership between Karun Nair and Washington Sundar helped India stay at the crease for the entire day, as they look to end their innings on a positive note on Day 2. However, based on Day 1, India’s performance was below expectations. Only 64 overs were bowled due to persistent rain.

The fifth Test of the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, being played at The Oval in London, saw England gain an early advantage. On a green, pace-friendly pitch, England’s pacers put the Indian batting lineup under pressure before rain interrupted play, leading to early lunch and tea breaks. Both Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul were dismissed early and sent back to the pavilion.

Rain Could Ruin India’s Hopes of a Series Draw

The weather forecast has issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms on Thursday. There’s an 80% chance of rain around the scheduled start time, which will likely delay the toss. The rain is expected to continue through most of the day, with a 70–80% chance of showers, and may only ease toward the end of the day.

India have lost all four tosses so far in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, and with these conditions, the weather will play a big role in deciding what to do after the toss.

What does the record say about India's win-loss record at The Oval?

India have played 14 Test matches against England at The Oval. Out of those, 7 ended in a draw, and India have won only 2 matches at this historic venue. They also played one Test match here against Australia in the 2023 World Test Championship final, which they lost after a brilliant century by Travis Head. In total, India have suffered 6 losses at The Oval.

Looking at the past, the record clearly doesn’t favour India at this ground. However, cricket is an unpredictable game — full of surprises — and anything can happen on the day. India will be hoping to defy history and put in a strong performance.

England the Favorites in the Betting Market at This Stage

There are several reasons why England are the favorites in the betting market at this stage. First, they lead the series with two wins, while India have only one. Even if this final Test ends in a draw, England will still win the series. That gives them a strong advantage going into the remainder of the match.

Today’s play begins on Day 2, and India are already in a difficult position after losing 6 wickets for just 204 runs. With England expected to bowl in better conditions and India under pressure, the hosts seem to be in a stronger position. Let’s see how the game unfolds — what do you think will happen next?

In short, England are in a better position right now, both in the match and in the series. India need a strong comeback to stay in the game and level the series. With rain in the forecast and pressure on the team, the next two days will be very important. Anything can happen in cricket, so fans will be watching closely.

Share the Post: