The battle between India and England at London’s Oval Cricket Ground continues with two days of intense play concluded. By stumps on the second day (August 1), India had amassed 75 runs for the loss of 2 wickets in their second innings, maintaining a lead of 52 with 8 wickets in hand.
India had initially scored 224 runs in their first innings, while England concluded their first innings at a score of 247. Thus, based on first-innings play, the home team secured a modest lead of 23 runs. The second day witnessed a flurry of wickets. Only six wickets had fallen on the first day, but the tally rose to fifteen on the second.
The rapid fall of wickets has accelerated the pace of the match. On the second day, India resumed their first innings at 204 for 6 but could only add another 20 runs as their last four wickets fell. Gus Atkinson from England excelled, claiming five wickets.
Krishna-Siraj Stage India's Comeback
England, in response, started their first innings energetically. Openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley added 92 runs in just 12.5 overs. However, losing momentum after their partnership broke, England lost six wickets in the second session, allowing the Indian team to stage a comeback.
In the final session, India claimed England’s remaining two wickets, and with Chris Woakes unavailable for batting, England's innings wrapped at 247/9. Indian bowlers Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna each took four wickets, while Akash Deep claimed a wicket.
In India’s second innings, two wickets fell. KL Rahul (7 runs) was caught by Joe Root off Josh Tongue's delivery. Sai Sudharsan was also out at a personal score of 11 to an LBW decision by Gus Atkinson. England had an opportunity to dismiss Yashasvi Jaiswal twice, but he survived on scores of 20 and 40. By the close of play, Yashasvi Jaiswal remained unbeaten on 51 alongside nightwatchman Akash Deep, who was on 4.
What’s Team India’s Strategy Today?
The third day (August 2) promises to be decisive. Expectations are high for Indian batsmen to deliver strong performances. With the pitch continuing to favor fast bowlers, batting won’t be easy. The morning session will be crucial, where India will aim to lose minimal wickets.
If the Indian team manages to set a target of at least 250 for the host England, it could pose a significant challenge. Nevertheless, for this to happen, captains like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Karun Nair, and Ravindra Jadeja need to shine with the bat. Should Yashasvi Jaiswal hold fort through a session or more on the third day, the match could sway in India’s favor.
