Gus Atkinson’s Five-Wicket Haul Sinks India for 224
Gus Atkinson five-wicket haul stunned India on Day 2 of the fifth Test at The Oval, as the visitors collapsed from 204 for 6 to 224 all out. His return to England’s playing XI proved pivotal, especially after Chris Woakes was ruled out due to a shoulder injury.
England Strike Early to Wrap Up India’s Innings
India resumed the day with four wickets in hand, but their hopes quickly faded. Josh Tongue made the initial breakthrough by dismissing Karun Nair for 57. A sharp in-swinger trapped Nair plumb in front, and he wasted a review in the process. Tongue, despite an expensive first over, found rhythm in his second.
Josh Tongue strikes big with 3 crucial wickets against India in the 5th Test 🎯🔥
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) August 1, 2025
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Atkinson Dominates with the Ball
The standout moment came from Gus Atkinson, who picked up three of the final four wickets. Washington Sundar fell into a well-set short ball trap, mistiming a pull that landed in the safe hands of Jamie Overton. Atkinson then cleaned up Mohammed Siraj and tempted Prasidh Krishna into edging one outside off.
India Collapse in Quick Succession
Within 18 balls, India lost four wickets for just six runs. The collapse marked the lowest first innings total of the series so far. Their 224 was far below expectations, especially after the previous low of 358 in Manchester.
Record-Breaking Stats for Atkinson
With this performance, Atkinson now averages 21 with the ball in Tests. Among England seamers with at least 50 wickets, he holds the fourth-best average. Additionally, his strike rate of 34.9 is the second-best for any English bowler who has taken 60 wickets.
Gus Atkinson grabs a stunning fifer against India in the 5th Test 🔥🎯
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) August 1, 2025
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Key Takeaways for England
The Gus Atkinson five-wicket haul brought control back to England after Woakes’ injury scare. On his home ground, the Surrey pacer delivered a match-turning performance. His fiery spell, supported by disciplined bowling from Tongue, ensured India couldn’t build momentum.
