Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan Lead India’s Fight in 5th Test Against England
India went to lunch at 72/2 after rain interrupted play on Day 1 of the final Test between India and England at The Oval. The opening session saw England take two key wickets, including the dismissal of KL Rahul, before Sai Sudharsan steadied the innings.
KL Rahul Dismissed Early in Testing Conditions
KL Rahul, who had looked composed during his stay, was removed for 14 after facing 40 deliveries. England, benefiting from overcast skies and an 8mm grass layer on the pitch, extracted swing and seam movement from the surface. Chris Woakes applied constant pressure with tight lines. Eventually, Rahul succumbed after an inside edge crashed onto his stumps. This wicket came after England had conceded just five runs in the previous six overs.
Atkinson Strikes First as Jaiswal Falls
The first breakthrough came early, courtesy of Gus Atkinson. Playing his first Test in two months, Atkinson trapped Yashasvi Jaiswal lbw in the fourth over. Although the on-field umpire gave it not out, England’s review paid off. Captain Ollie Pope got the decision right after 14 unsuccessful reviews in the series. Atkinson ended the session with impressive figures of 6-1-7-1.
Sai Sudharsan and Gill Stabilize the Innings
After Rahul’s exit, Sai Sudharsan joined Shubman Gill at the crease. Together, they navigated tricky conditions effectively. Sudharsan appeared composed, exploiting gaps left by a weakened English bowling unit. The absence of Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes was felt as replacements Josh Tongue and Jamie Overton struggled. Tongue bowled 11 runs in wides during his first over, and Overton conceded 16 in three.
Gill, on the other hand, crossed 732 runs in the series—setting the record for most runs by an Indian captain in a single Test series. The duo kept the scoreboard ticking until rain brought an early halt to play.
Early Lunch at The Oval After Promising Start
With the score at 72/2 after 23 overs, a sudden downpour forced the players off the field. The conditions remained uncertain as both teams waited for the skies to clear. However, India will be pleased with the partnership building at the crease.
