Day 3 Drama at The Oval: India vs England, Fifth Test

The third day at The Oval in the fifth Test between India and England delivered the kind of action and twists that make Test cricket unforgettable. Let’s break down how the day unfolded, session by session, and relive the standout moments and heroic performances.

Session 1: Akashdeep and Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Incredible Resistance

The day started with India under pressure, and all eyes were on Yashasvi Jaiswal, already well set at the crease, with nightwatchman Akashdeep at the other end. England’s pace battery unleashed everything they had, but what followed was a display of grit and skill from two unlikely partners.

The Akashdeep Surprise

• Akashdeep stunned the cricket world, not only surviving but counter-attacking with confidence. He brought up a crucial half-century, showing remarkable composure and technique for a bowler!

• His knock of 66 was laced with boundaries and determined defense, frustrating England, who clearly were expecting a quick finish to the Indian tail.

Jaiswal: The Young Maestro

• Yashasvi Jaiswal continued to bat with flow and flair, finding gaps and supporting Akashdeep smartly.

• Their partnership crossed the 100-run mark, and by the end of the session, India were in a commanding position, having wiped out the deficit and built a lead that put the pressure squarely on England.

Session 2: England Claw Back Into the Contest

The second session saw the momentum shift as England’s bowlers finally managed to break through the stubborn partnership:

• India lost a series of quick wickets after Akashdeep’s departure, with Jaiswal also falling after reaching a memorable century.

• The English attack, despite missing Chris Woakes due to injury, rallied and chipped away at India’s middle and lower order.

• Ravindra Jadeja and Dhruv Jurel provided some resistance, but wickets fell steadily, and the prospect of India posting a huge target was in doubt.

Session 3: Sundar and Jurel Ignite the Fireworks

Just as England thought they could restrict India to a chasable score, the lower order had other ideas:

Washington Sundar’s Dazzle

• Washington Sundar played a bold and timely knock, launching a late onslaught against tired English bowlers.

• He timed his strokeplay perfectly, smashing boundaries and pushing the lead beyond 350, with Jurel providing vital support.

• Their positive intent turned the tables once more, and by the time Sundar fell, India had set England a massive target of 374.

England’s Response: Bright Start, Big Blow

England’s openers came out confident and played the opening spells with calm assurance. Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett looked comfortable showing early resistance, and The Oval crowd felt the chase was well and truly on.

The Final Twist

• As the day wound down, it looked like England would end unscathed. But cricket has a way of writing its own script.

• Zak Crawley, after a fluent start, was dismissed on the last delivery of the day, handing India a psychological advantage going into day four.

Key Takeaways from Day 3

• Akashdeep and Yashasvi Jaiswal’s resilience set the tone early and sapped English energy.

• England fought back valiantly in the afternoon, refusing to let India run away with the Test.

• Washington Sundar’s attacking flair in the final session ensured a massive target.

• England’s openers batted well, but the dismissal of Crawley late on means momentum is with India heading into the penultimate day.

What Lies Ahead

With eight wickets in hand, England will need a record-breaking chase to win the series. India, however, have their tails up after a spirited all-round display on moving day. The stage is set for a thrilling finish at The Oval!

Stay tuned as this epic series delivers more twists and turns. Will India’s bowlers seal the deal, or can England pull off another famous chase? Day 4 promises to be unmissable!