INDIA TOUR OF ENGLAND, 2025
The atmosphere has understandably soured over the past two Tests – it’s tense and confrontational © Getty
There are two ways to get to The Oval via the London Underground. The Northern Line takes you close enough to hear the turnstiles; you get off at the station bearing its name, rise through cricket-decorated corridors, and emerge into the daylight. A quick turn reveals the historic Surrey pavilion. Alternatively, you could ride the Victoria Line to Vauxhall, navigate through the bustling commuters exiting the national rail station, stop by a few pubs, and follow the road’s curve until the ground becomes visible behind red-brick buildings and the shiny Alec Stewart gates.
Both routes lead to The Oval. One is quicker, while the other is more scenic. India and England have taken a longer path to reach The Oval over the last four Tests, with each session extending and unfolding over five days. This delay is fitting for a series renamed in honor of Tendulkar and Anderson, two masters of longevity in Test cricket.
However, the series has exacted a toll on both teams. Seven bowlers have bowled over 100 overs each. At Old Trafford, Ben Stokes suffered cramps, while Jasprit Bumrah struggled through, pushing his limits even as his speed dropped. England’s captain is now sidelined due to injury; India may hold back their star player to prevent similar issues. Nevertheless, bowlers like Chris Woakes and Mohammed Siraj will continue, even as they lack the proper support.
This situation seemed inevitable. With such intense efforts required, something had to yield, impacting both the players’ minds and bodies. Tension is palpable, reflecting a series where India feels a moral victory for hanging tough in Manchester, while also realizing they could have led the series. The finale offers a chance to return from The Oval with an even score.
When: England vs India, 5th Test, July 31 – August 4, 2025, 15:30 IST, 11:00 Local
Where: The Oval, London
What to expect: Following a heatwave just weeks prior to the Lord’s Test, London’s current forecast indicates light rain during three days, including the first day. Historically, teams have opted to bowl first here, with highest scores typically coming in the third innings. Recent matches suggest a grassy pitch that may benefit seamers.
Team News:
England: The English side will miss their captain for the final Test, with Ollie Pope stepping in. Gus Atkinson and Jamie Overton return, while Jofra Archer has been rested. Jacob Bethell is included at No. 6, providing left-arm spin, as England opts for four seamers.
India: Dhruv Jurel replaces the injured Rishabh Pant. The absence of Pant will test their strategy of balancing depth and bowling strength. Bumrah may be rested, and a decision looms on whether to play Prasidh Krishna or Arshdeep Singh.
Did you know?
– India has won two out of 15 Tests at The Oval, including a victory in 2021, but lost their last match there in the 2023 WTC Final against Australia.
– Shubman Gill is just 89 runs shy of surpassing Sir Don Bradman’s record for runs in a debut series as captain.
– Joe Root has scored two centuries at The Oval, both against India.
What they said:
“It’s been a tough series, but it’s a privilege to play. It’s a real test of character and physicality. The commitment shown by both teams each day is a testament to the significance of this format.” – Ben Stokes
“The cricket we’ve played doesn’t always reflect in the score. If we can level the series, it will be a significant achievement, showcasing our growth in this competitive series.” – Shubman Gill
© Cricbuzz
