IND vs ENG 5th Test win prediction: Who will emerge victorious at Oval?

Oval's pitch greenish tinge seen earlier has faded, with a more soil-like texture now visible after application of heavy rollers. Since Day 2, the sun has been shining brightly, flattening the pitch

England need to chase down a 374-run target set by India on Day 4 of the fifth and final Test at The Oval in London. If they succeed, it will be their second-highest successful run chase in Test cricket history, surpassing the 371 they chased in the first Test of the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. England will resume from 50 for 1.

 

However, that is easier said than done. The Oval pitch continues to offer some assistance to bowlers.

 

What can India expect on Day 4?

  Mohammed Siraj, leading India’s pace attack in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, dismissed opener Zak Crawley in the final minutes of Day 3. That crucial breakthrough has given India the edge heading into Day 4 — which could also turn out to be the final day of what has been a gruelling five-match series.

 

India did take two wickets in the first session of Day 4 but Harry Brook's counter-attacking innings has put England in commanding position in the second session. 

Check India vs England 5th Test Day 4 live score, full scorecard and match updates here 

How is the Oval pitch expected to behave?

  The pitch is favouring batters slightly more today, as seam and swing are less compared to the previous three days. The greenish tinge seen earlier has faded, with a more soil-like texture now visible after the application of heavy rollers between innings. Since Day 2, the sun has been shining brightly, further flattening the surface.

 

The odd balls are troubling the batters but both English batters scoring runs with ease. The consistent sunshine has also dried up the outfield, making it quicker — something that could aid England’s counter-attacking approach. The use of heavy rollers by both teams has further reduced the grass cover.

 

What do England need to do today? 

England does manage to build at least one partnership in excess of 100 runs to get close to the target. Their experience of chasing big totals in the Bazball era is coming handy in the second session of Day 4.

 

However, the hosts will miss the batting depth provided by Chris Woakes, who has been ruled out of the match. That effectively means India need just eight more wickets to secure victory at the start of Day 4.

 

IND vs ENG 5th Test win prediction 

India did look favourites in the first session when Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Sirj got the wickets on Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope. But, a partnership of more than 100 runs between Joe Root and Harry Brook, shift the balance in England's favour. India need to get rid of both the batters as quickly to have any chance in the game now.  (This story will be updated as the Day 4 action at the Oval progresses)