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The fifth and final Test between two wonderful sides, England and India, is ready to kick off from July 31 at the Kia Oval in London. With the hosts leading the series 2-1, the game becomes crucial for both sides, promising some exciting action in the last game.
England and India set for series finale at the iconic Oval
The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 has produced thrilling cricket over the past month. It began with England’s dominant win at Headingley, showcasing their chasing prowess. India, however, showed great character at Old Trafford, where determined batting helped them earn a fighting draw and stay alive in the series. Now, the action shifts to The Oval — a venue where India emerged victorious the last time these two teams met. Known for offering assistance to spinners as the match progresses, The Oval could prove to be a crucial battleground as India aim to level the series and England look to seal it.
Here are the top 3 battles to watch out in the fifth Test:
1. Harry Brook vs Washington Sundar
This contest showcases England’s young batting talent Harry Brook against India’s off-spinner Washington Sundar. Brook, known for his aggressive strokeplay, played a fluent knock at Old Trafford, displaying his ability to counter-attack under pressure. However, like many English batters, he has shown occasional struggles against quality spin, particularly off-spin. Sundar, who has picked up 7 wickets in 3 Tests, relies on control and subtle variations to challenge batters. If he sticks to a disciplined line and builds pressure, he could draw a false shot from Brook and give India a vital breakthrough.
Also READ: Sunil Gavaskar criticizes Ben Stokes’ captaincy and England’s tactical approach vs India in 4th Test
2. Ben Duckett vs Mohammed Siraj
Second key battle to look out for is between opening batter Ben Duckett and India’s pace spearhead Mohammed Siraj. Duckett has been consistently providing solid starts for his side with his aggressive approach, putting bowlers on the back foot early. Siraj, who has not been in his finest form this series, has struggled to trouble Duckett in previous encounters. However, with the final game at the Oval on the horizon, Siraj will be eager to hit his rhythm and find the swing and accuracy needed to unsettle Duckett and give India early momentum.
3. Joe Root vs Ravindra Jadeja
Another key contest to watch will be between Joe Root and Ravindra Jadeja. The duo have been involved in some of the finest battles over the years, especially in the subcontinent. Jadeja’s accuracy, sharp turn, and subtle variations continue to trouble even the best, and he showcased that again by getting Root stumped with a wonderful delivery at Old Trafford. While Root remains England’s most dependable batter and is in good form, Jadeja’s ability to maintain relentless pressure and exploit any lapse in footwork could once again be crucial—especially on a surface like The Oval, known to assist spin.
Also WATCH: “Don’t tell us what to do”: Gautam Gambhir loses his cool at pitch curator ahead of the Oval Test
