IND vs ENG 5th Test, Day 2: India took 52-Run Lead After Tight Bowling Show

Shubham Sangale·2 August 2025 at 12:36 am IST

IND vs ENG 5th Test Day 2: The fifth and final Test between India and England at the Kennington Oval remains finely poised after a dramatic second day. England took a slim 23-run lead in the first innings, but India bounced back with a steady start in their second innings to end the day ahead by 52 runs.

IND vs ENG 5th Test Day 2: England Edge Ahead After India’s Collapse

India resumed Day 2 on 204/6, with hopes pinned on Karun Nair and Washington Sundar to stretch the innings. But those hopes were quickly dashed. The visitors lost their remaining four wickets for just 20 runs, folding for 224.

Karun Nair’s gritty 57 stood out as the top score, while Sai Sudharsan (38) and Washington Sundar (26) offered some resistance. The rest of the batting faltered, especially the top order, with Yashasvi Jaiswal (2) and Ravindra Jadeja (9) failing to make an impact.

England’s pace attack, especially Gus Atkinson, exploited the conditions well. Making a strong comeback, Atkinson claimed 5/33 in 21.4 overs, while Josh Tongue supported with 3/49. Chris Woakes chipped in with a wicket but did not return to bat due to a shoulder injury.

IND vs ENG 5th Test Day 2: Siraj, Prasidh Script England’s Collapse

In reply, England looked threatening early on as Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett raced to a 90+ partnership. But India’s fast bowlers turned the game around. Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna led a brilliant fightback, picking up four wickets each to bowl out England for 247 in 51.2 overs.

Zak Crawley (64), Ben Duckett (43), and Harry Brook (53) were the only major contributors as England failed to capitalise on their early momentum. Akash Deep also claimed a key wicket, while Woakes didn’t bat.

India Ends Strong, Jaiswal Anchors Second Innings

Trailing by 23 runs, India started their second innings cautiously. Despite the early loss of KL Rahul (7) and Sai Sudharsan (11), Yashasvi Jaiswal held firm. The left-hander remained unbeaten on 51* at stumps, guiding India to 75/2 in 18 overs, along with nightwatchman Akash Deep (4*).

India now leads by 52 runs going into Day 3 — a day that could define the series as England holds a 2-1 lead. With the pitch still assisting seamers and some sun expected, all eyes will be on India’s batting response.