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England and India are poised for a high-stakes 5th Test at the iconic Oval in London on July 31, 2025, during India’s tour of England. England lead the series 2-1, aiming to secure their first Test series victory over India in seven years, while India seek to level the series and avoid defeat. England’s batting features attacking openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, with seasoned middle-order players Joe Root and Harry Brook. Captain Ollie Pope will lead a bowling attack that includes Chris Woakes, Jamie Overton, and Josh Tongue.
England’s playing XI faces significant changes as key players sit out the crucial final Test
For this all-important 5th Test, England’s playing XI includes notable changes due to the absence of key players Ben Stokes, Brydon Carse, and Jofra Archer. Stokes is ruled out with a right shoulder injury, while Brydon Carse and Jofra Archer are rested. In their place, Pope assumes captaincy, with Jacob Bethell, Gus Atkinson, Overton, and Tongue brought into the side as replacements. This revised lineup aims to balance experience and fresh energy as England seek to secure the series win on home soil.
India’s strong batting lineup is led by captain Shubman Gill, a prolific scorer throughout the series, supported by KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and pace spearhead Mohammed Siraj, as Jasprit Bumrah is likely rested. The pitch at The Oval promises an intriguing contest: early conditions will favour seam bowlers before assisting spinners and reverse swing as the match progresses, setting the stage for a potentially dramatic, high-scoring final Test. The series outcome hinges on whether England can capitalize on home advantage and bowling depth to close the match or if India’s resilience and spin strength will force a decider. This Test is expected to be a thrilling encounter with significant implications for both teams in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025.
Also READ: ENG vs IND: Ben Stokes ruled out as England name playing XI for the Oval Test
ENG vs IND Head to Head Record at the Kennington Oval
- Total Test matches played: 14
- England won: 5
- India won: 2
- Draw: 7
Test stats and records at the Kennington Oval
- Total matches: 112
- Matches won batting first: 42
- Matches won bowling first: 30
- Average 1st innings scores: 338
- Average 2nd innings scores: 300
- Average 3rd innings scores: 237
- Average 4th innings scores: 156
- Highest total recorded: 903/7 (335.2 Ov) by ENG vs AUS
- Lowest total recorded: 44/10 (26 Ov) by AUS vs ENG
Also READ: Dhruv Jurel vs N Jagadeesan: Who will be a better choice for India in the Oval Test?
