The fifth and final Test match between India and England is underway at The Oval, and it’s shaping up to be a thrilling contest. Team India has set a formidable target of 374 runs for England to chase. At the close of play on Day 3, England managed to score 50 runs for the loss of one wicket, with the dismissal coming in the final over of the day—thanks to a masterful setup by Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj.
🎯 Siraj’s Clever Setup Dismantles Crawley The last over of the day was bowled by Siraj, and it was a tactical masterpiece. Zak Crawley had confidently played the first four deliveries of the over. Then, Siraj made a subtle but significant change—he repositioned a fielder to the deep square leg boundary. Observers assumed a bouncer was coming next. But Siraj had other plans.
Instead of a short-pitched delivery, he unleashed a perfect yorker, catching Crawley off guard and clean bowling him. The deception worked flawlessly, giving India a crucial breakthrough and lifting the team’s morale heading into Day 4.
Crawley didn’t want another over; Siraj made sure of it 🤷♂️ #SonySportsNetwork #ENGvIND #NayaIndia #DhaakadIndia #TeamIndia #ExtraaaInnings | @mdsirajofficial pic.twitter.com/uWi1v0CNYA
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) August 2, 2025
👏 Praise from All Quarters Siraj’s smart bowling earned widespread praise. Even Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara, who was on commentary duty, lauded Siraj’s strategic brilliance and execution. The dismissal not only broke England’s opening stand but also gave India a psychological edge.
🔢 England’s Chase Begins Steadily England began their chase with openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, who stitched together a solid 50-run partnership. Crawley scored 14 runs off 36 balls before falling to Siraj’s trap, while Duckett remained unbeaten on 34 off 48 balls.
📌 What Lies Ahead With 324 runs still needed for victory, England faces a daunting task. India, on the other hand, will aim to wrap up the English innings swiftly on Day 4 and secure a memorable win to close out the series.