India is very close to securing victory in the 5th Test against England at The Oval.
Day 3 was all about India’s lower-order players turning the game in their favor and the bowlers keeping England under pressure.
Akash Deep Shocks England
Akash Deep, who came in just to protect the main batsmen, surprised everyone by scoring 66 runs from 94 balls. This was his first-half century in Test cricket. He hit 12 boundaries and attacked England’s tired bowlers. His brave batting gave India a big boost.
Jaiswal and Jadeja Support the Cause
Yashasvi Jaiswal, one of India’s best young batters, stayed cool and made 118 runs for his fourth Test hundred overseas. Ravindra Jadeja also helped by getting a fast fifty. They combined well to put up a solid total for India.
Washington Sundar's Fast Runs
Late in the day, Washington Sundar hit 53 runs from just 46 balls, with four sixes and four boundaries! His quick hits made sure India stayed far ahead. Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja played key roles in raising India’s total to a commanding 396 runs.
England’s Tough Task
England did not bowl well. They even dropped some easy catches, including one when Akash Deep was just on 21. England is now tasked with the difficult chase of 374 runs to win, a score that would mark a new record at The Oval. The highest successful chase here before was only 263 runs, more than 100 years ago!
By the end of Day 3, England had scored 50 for 1, after Mohammed Siraj bowled Zak Crawley out with a perfect yorker on the day’s last ball. England still requires 324 runs to win, with nine wickets remaining and only two days left in the match.
Day 3 Highlights:
- Akash Deep makes a brave 66 as nightwatchman
- Jaiswal scores 118 for his fourth overseas hundred
- Sundar hits 53* off 46 balls with big shots
- Jadeja adds a useful fifty
- With the last ball of the day, Siraj secured a crucial wicket for India
What to Expect Next?
England need something very special to win from here. India only need nine more wickets to win and tie the series. The next day should be exciting. Will India finish the job, or can England fight back?
Stay tuned for all the action on Day 4!