The high-voltage fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 is unfolding with intense drama at The Oval in London. On Day 3 of the decisive encounter, Team India stormed back into the match with a dominant second innings, setting England a massive target of 373 runs.
Fueled by a sparkling century from Yashasvi Jaiswal and an unexpected lower-order gem from Akash Deep, India closed their second innings at 396 all out in 88 overs, flipping the pressure back on the hosts in this series decider.
Jaiswal Leads the Charge with Sublime Century
After a low score in the first innings, Yashasvi Jaiswal returned with renewed focus and class. The young left-hander smashed 118 runs off 164 deliveries, decorated with 14 fours and 2 sixes. It was a crucial knock that stabilized India early on and tilted momentum in their favor.
Jaiswal’s elegant strokeplay and calm temperament under pressure once again highlighted his growing stature in Indian cricket, especially in overseas Tests.
Akash Deep Surprises with the Bat
While the top and middle order laid the platform, it was Akash Deep’s gritty 66 off 94 balls that took India well past the 350-mark. Known for his pace bowling, Akash’s contribution with the bat was both timely and unexpected. He frustrated the English bowlers and stitched valuable lower-order partnerships that extended India’s lead substantially.
Supporting Roles: Jadeja, Washington, Jurel Steady the Ship
Contributions came in from multiple corners. Ravindra Jadeja (53) and Washington Sundar (53) played handy innings, offering stability through the middle overs. Dhruv Jurel added 34 runs to keep the scoreboard ticking. These middle-order efforts ensured that India didn’t collapse like they did in their first innings.
India finished their second innings at 396, having lost all 10 wickets, leaving England with a daunting chase of 373 runs.
England’s Bowling Efforts: Tongue Leads the Pack
For England, Josh Tongue emerged as the standout bowler, picking up 5 wickets for 125 runs in 30 overs. Gus Atkinson chipped in with 3 wickets for 127 runs, while Jamie Overton took 2 scalps. Despite their efforts, England’s bowlers struggled to contain India’s aggressive lower-order assault.
England’s First Innings: Early Lead but Short-lived
Earlier in the match, England took a modest 23-run lead after bowling India out for 224 in their first innings. Their response was quick and aggressive. Zak Crawley led the way with 64 runs off just 74 balls, hitting 14 boundaries. Ben Duckett added 43 off 38 balls, including 2 sixes, while Harry Brook (53) and Joe Root (29) also chipped in.
At one point, England looked poised for a big total after an impressive 92-run opening stand, but the middle and lower order collapsed under pressure. India’s comeback was driven by Mohammed Siraj (4/86) and Prasidh Krishna (4/64), whose deadly spells ripped through England’s lineup. Akash Deep picked up one wicket, while Jadeja remained wicketless.
India’s First Innings: Early Collapse Hurts
India’s first outing with the bat was far from ideal. They were bundled out for 224 in 69.4 overs, failing to build any major partnerships. Yashasvi Jaiswal was out for just 2 runs, trapped LBW by Gus Atkinson. The top order couldn’t capitalize, and the middle order faltered under pressure.
Karun Nair stood out with a fighting 57 off 109 balls, but lacked support. Sundar (26), Jurel (19), and Jadeja (9) offered only brief resistance. Atkinson’s 5-wicket haul and disciplined bowling from Josh Tongue (3 wickets) and Chris Woakes (1 wicket) ensured India stayed under 250.
The Situation Now: England Chasing History
As it stands, England need 373 runs to win the final Test and seal the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025. With two full days of play remaining and the pitch slowly beginning to offer turn and uneven bounce, the match is perfectly poised.
India’s bowlers, especially Siraj and Krishna, will aim to replicate their first-innings magic, while England’s batters must mount one of the most challenging fourth-innings chases in modern Test history.
This Test has become a tale of resilience, redemption, and raw cricketing grit. Whether it’s Jaiswal’s classy ton, Akash Deep’s brave knock, or England’s early firepower, every twist has kept fans on edge.
With the trophy on the line and both teams battling fatigue and pressure, the last two days promise cricket at its finest.
