Mohammed Siraj Strikes Late as India Eyes Series Equalizer

On the third day of the fifth Test in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval, Indian bowler Mohammed Siraj delivered a sensational yorker to dismiss England opener Zak Crawley with the final ball of the day, leaving England at 50 for 1 at stumps. The hosts require an additional 324 runs to secure victory and clinch the series with a 3-1 scoreline.

India had a commanding presence throughout most of the day, highlighted by Akash Deep scoring a lively 66, marking his first half-century in Test cricket. Following him, Yashasvi Jaiswal showcased his talent with a remarkable 118 runs from 164 balls, including 14 boundaries and two sixes. Jaiswal’s century had special significance as he played in front of his family, including his parents and elder brother, who were in attendance, along with ODI captain Rohit Sharma.

India’s second innings ended at 396 runs in 88 overs, with Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar each contributing 53 runs. For England, Josh Tongue delivered a notable performance, taking five wickets for 125 runs, while Gus Atkinson and Jamie Overton claimed three for 127 and two for 98, respectively.

As England embarked on their chase of 374 runs, they managed to navigate the final hour of play effectively, with Ben Duckett remaining unbeaten on 34. Just as it appeared they would end the day unscathed, Siraj’s quick thinking and skill led to Crawley’s dismissal for 14 runs, lifting India’s spirits as they head into a crucial fourth day.

The morning session had seen fireworks from Akash, who was dropped on 21 runs but went on to fulfill his role as a nightwatchman by forming a vital 107-run partnership with Jaiswal. Akash made his presence felt immediately, striking boundaries off England’s bowlers, including a rapid maiden Test fifty that was celebrated by his teammates and coaching staff.

Jaiswal’s century came as he took a quick single to bring up his sixth Test hundred, further solidifying his place as a rising star in international cricket. Despite a shaky performance from Karun Nair, who struggled at the crease, Jadeja and Jaiswal continued to score freely until Jadeja’s innings ended with a catch off Overton.

As the afternoon session unfolded, India extended their lead past 330 runs. Jaiswal’s impressive knock ended when he fell for 118, and shortly after, Sundar began accelerating the innings with a flurry of boundaries that showcased his aggressive batting style. His effort included a six over midwicket and a series of well-timed shots that helped him reach his fifth Test fifty.

Despite England’s early resistance in their innings, Siraj’s late strike provided India with a much-needed boost. Having set up an intriguing contest, both teams are poised for an engaging fourth day of play. Siraj, now tied as the leading wicket-taker in the series alongside Tongue, will be crucial in India’s quest to level the series at 2-2.

As the match progresses, the stakes remain high for both sides, with England aiming to secure a series victory and India determined to fight back. The outcome of the final day promises to be thrilling as both teams vie for supremacy in this closely contested series.