India Aims for Series Equalization Against England in Final Test at The Oval

As Team India prepares to face England in the fifth and final Test at The Oval, the stakes are high. After a dramatic draw in the fourth Test, India aims to level the series at 2-2. This match not only holds significance for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy but also marks a historic venue for Indian cricket, where they seek to replicate past successes. With a rich history at The Oval, including their first Test victory in 1971, the team is determined to make a mark. Will they succeed in equalizing the series? Read on to find out more about this thrilling encounter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 30, 2025, 08:01 IST

India vs England: The Final Test Showdown

On Thursday, July 31, Team India is set to compete against England in the fifth and final Test of their current series at The Oval in London. This match serves as the decider for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, following a dramatic draw in the fourth Test at Old Trafford, which kept the five-match series alive with England leading 2-1.

India's Mission: Level the Series

Heading into The Oval Test, India's primary goal is to equalize the series at 2-2 after their impressive draw in Manchester, showcasing their strong batting performance. Historically, India has played 14 matches at this venue from 1936 to 2021, achieving only two victories in 1971 and 2021, while suffering six losses and drawing seven.

A Historic Venue for Team India

The Oval has been a significant ground for Indian cricket, with their first win there occurring in 1971 under the captaincy of Ajit Wadekar. It took 50 years for India to secure another victory at this venue, which they accomplished under Virat Kohli's leadership.

The 1971 Test victory at The Oval was particularly monumental, marking India's first series win on English soil, a feat that followed their historic Test series victory in the West Indies.

Ajit Wadekar's Unforgettable Achievement

During India's seventh tour of the UK in 1971, the team faced immense pressure to prove their capabilities abroad. The first two Tests at Lord's and Old Trafford ended in draws, leading to heightened expectations for the third match. Ajit Wadekar lost the toss, and England opted to bat first.

However, this decision backfired as Indian bowlers, including Eknath Solkar, Bhagwat Chandrashekar, Bishan Singh Bedi, and Srinivas Venkatraghavan, dismantled England's batting lineup, bowling them out for 355 runs. Alan Knott was the top scorer for England with 90 runs.

India's Resilient Response

In their first innings, despite facing pressure from England's bowlers, Indian batsmen displayed resilience. With contributions from Dilip Sardesai, Farokh Engineer, and others, India managed to score 284 runs, trailing by 71 runs.

In England's second innings, they began with a 71-run lead, but Indian bowlers, particularly Bhagwat Chandrashekar, turned the match around. Chandrashekar's remarkable performance, taking six wickets for just 38 runs, led to England's collapse, as they were bowled out for only 101 runs.

The Historic Chase

With a target of 173 runs, India began their second innings on Day 4. By the end of the day, they had scored 76 runs for the loss of two wickets. On Day 5, after losing a few wickets, the pressure mounted, but crucial partnerships helped India inch closer to victory.

Ultimately, Syed Abid Ali hit the winning four runs, securing India's first-ever Test victory and series win on English soil, marking a significant milestone in Indian cricket history.