India’s impressive performance on Day 3 of the 5th Test at The Oval, fueled by crucial knocks and a late bowling strike, has set the stage for a thrilling series finale against England.
India Dominates Day 3
It was a day full of frustrating moments for England. India extended their second innings significantly, reaching 396 thanks to a resilient batting display.
Nightwatchman Akash Deep started strong with a valuable cameo. Following him, opener Yashasvi Jaiswal notched up a crucial century, despite being dropped multiple times.
The real highlight came late in the day as Washington Sundar unleashed four towering sixes, scoring a brisk 53 off just 46 balls. His partnership added 39 crucial runs for the last wicket, pushing India’s lead even further.
Jaiswal’s Timely Century
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s century was a redemption story. Before this match, his second-innings scores had been a concern for the Indian team, often failing to convert starts.
This time, after a low score in the first innings, Jaiswal showed remarkable composure. He curbed his natural attacking instincts, focusing on solid defense and building a significant total for his team.
Despite a few reprieves from England’s fielders, his 118-run knock was a vital contribution, turning the tide for India in a high-stakes match.
Sundar’s Explosive Finish
Washington Sundar’s aggressive batting with the tailenders proved to be a masterstroke. With the field spread out, he opted for an aerial assault, clearing the ropes with ease.
His approach, focusing on clearing the field rather than searching for singles, added quick, vital runs. His fifty, punctuated by powerful sixes, exemplified smart, calculated risk-taking.
These late runs significantly boosted India’s total, putting more pressure on an exhausted English bowling attack.
England’s Uphill Chase
Chasing a formidable target of 374 runs to win the series, England ended Day 3 at 50/1. Mohammed Siraj delivered a critical blow on the very last ball of the day, shattering Zak Crawley’s stumps.
This late wicket swung momentum back towards India. England now needs 324 runs with nine wickets in hand, while India needs nine more wickets for victory.
The weather forecast for Day 4 includes potential rain in the afternoon, adding another layer of unpredictability to what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the series.
- India set England a challenging target of 374 runs.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal scored a crucial second-innings century (118).
- Washington Sundar’s quickfire 53 boosted India’s total significantly.
- Mohammed Siraj dismissed Zak Crawley on the final ball of Day 3, giving India a crucial breakthrough.
As the series hangs finely in the balance, the first hour of Day 4 will undoubtedly be critical in determining the winner of this gripping contest.
