India vs England 5th Test 2025 Scorecard: Full Match Highlights & Stats

Rain-threatened Day 1 at The Oval began with England winning the toss and opting to bowl, as India’s bowlers Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, and Mohammed Siraj prepared to challenge a green‑topped pitch. India trail the Anderson‑Tendulkar Trophy 2‑1 and must capitalize quickly.

As the decider of the Anderson‑Tendulkar Trophy kicked off at London’s Kennington Oval on 31 July 2025, the match carried high drama—not just on field but above it too—with coming rain, delayed toss, and India chasing a series draw to level at 2‑2.

Toss & Playing XI Details

Toss and Pitch Outlook

England captain Ollie Pope, standing in for injured Ben Stokes, won the toss (India’s 15th consecutive toss loss) and chose to bowl first on a green and cloudy pitch, expected to assist seam bowling early on. The decision came amid overcast and rainy conditions threatening play.

H3: Team Lineups

India initial XI included:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (c), Karun Nair, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Washington Sundar, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna

England XI included:
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Oli Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue

Weather & Pitch Report

London Weather – Rain Threat Looms

The day started damp, with intermittent showers before play began. The rain forecast predicted thunderstorms around 3 pm–4 pm, prompting delayed start and cover usage at the Oval.

Pitch Behavior at The Oval

Historically, The Oval pitch is green with moisture early, offering seam movement, then flattens and helps spin later in the match. The toss-winner’s decision is often informed accordingly.

Day 1 Play Highlights

Toss Delayed, Play Begins

The toss itself was delayed due to rain-radar predictions. Once the covers were removed, England opted to bowl under early moisture.

Early Overs

India’s top order faced early seam pressure. Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep and Siraj formed the pace trio, with Jadeja, Sundar providing spin depth.

No significant scoring data yet as play only just started: scoreboard read India 0/0 (0.0 overs).

Player Spotlight – Prasidh Krishna

Krishna Returns to Attack

Selected alongside Siraj and Akash Deep, Krishna offered raw pace and bounce over length. While first session yielded no wickets, he looked sharp in early spells.

Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar, however, had previously remarked:

“We’ve seen enough of Prasidh Krishna… Invest in someone who might give long‑term returns.”

Given Jasprit Bumrah’s absence, the bowling role and burden rests heavily on the young pacer.

Historical Edge & Oval Records

India’s Oval Record

India have only won 2 out of 14 Tests at The Oval—the most recent victory arriving in 2021 via Shardul Thakur heroics. Seven matches ended in draws. England have fared better, but this match offers India stage to repeat history.

Player Stats at Oval

KL Rahul is India’s best active batter at this venue; Rahul Dravid’s average of 110 is unmatched in historical records. Ravindra Jadeja holds India’s wicket tally at the Oval but balancing workload is expected.

Scorecard Snapshot – Start of Day 1

India 0/0 (0.0 overs): batting first yet to begin
No wickets fallen
Light rain and low visibility affecting schedule
Both sides carefully building strategy around weather and toss outcome position

Context & Series Stakes

India trail 2‑1 in the series; to avoid a series defeat, they must win this final Test. A draw still means losing the trophy as England retain it. The pressure is immense, with every over now vital. Omission of talisman Jasprit Bumrah and Ben Stokes’ injury adds intrigue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who won the toss and what was the decision?

England won the toss (India’s 15th loss in a row) and chose to bowl first under overcast conditions.

2. Which bowlers did India select?

India started with three pacers: Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, supported by Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja in spin.

3. How is the weather affecting play at The Oval?

Rain and thunderstorms forecast through afternoon with intermittent showers. Covers have been used, delaying play.

4. What is India’s recent Test record at The Oval?

India have played 14 Tests at The Oval—won 2 (1971, 2021), drawn 7, and lost the rest. A win today would level the series.

5. What are the series stakes at stake?

India must win to level the series 2‑2. A draw means England retain the Anderson‑Tendulkar Trophy as series leader. India’s bowling lineup altered due to injuries.

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Conclusion

Day 1 of the India vs England 5th Test unfolded under weather disruption, strategic team reshuffling, and high pressure for India to level the series. England’s decision to bowl, coupled with a green pitch and changing weather, framed a day of caution and limited play. Prasidh Krishna’s selection under scrutiny, toss setbacks, and Oval’s unique record history add layers of intrigue. As rain subsides and actual play begins, every session—and strategic move—becomes decisive.

Stay tuned for complete match progression, detailed batting and bowling analysis, and how India responds under pressure as the series finale unfolds.