ENG v IND 2025 5th Test Day 4: Root’s Ton, England Need 35 Runs

On 3 August, on the 4th day of the 5th test of India's tour of England 2025 at the Oval, where England scored 339 for 6. Jos Root and Harry Brook’s century. England goes for the historical chase. 

Day 4 Summary

Momentum swings to India, Brook and Root take control

England was left reeling at 106/3 before lunch as Ben Duckett (54) and Ollie Pope (27), who started with the intention, were dismissed by Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj, respectively. Pope's LBW and Duckett's edge to slip demonstrated India's tactical discipline in cloudy conditions.

Brook and Root take control

Joe Root and Harry Brook forged a vital 195-run partnership, keeping England in the box seat despite early breakthroughs. Root anchored with a brilliant 105, then Brook exploded with a scorching 111 off 98 balls.

The game changed course when Mohammed Siraj caught Brook at fine leg but stepped on the boundary, converting a catch into a six and saving a possible wicket.

In addition to being an emotional tribute to his guru Graham Thorpe, Root's century tied him with Sunil Gavaskar on 39 Test tons.

Weather Impact

Prasidh Krishna struck twice in quick succession to remove Joe Root and Jacob Bethell as England edged closer to victory, pulling India back into the match. Root was dismissed just a few runs away from winning. If Chris Woakes fails to bat on the last day due to injury, England will be reduced to a three-wicket chase. Play ended early due to rain and waning light, stopping England's assault at 339/6 with 73.2 overs bowled.

 

Overview Day 4: England Goes for a Historical Chase, India Needs Miraculous

With a successful run chase of 374, England would surpass the previous record of 253 established by the West Indies in 1963 and create a new record at The Oval.

With disciplined seam bowling and a comeback from their big pacers, India may yet gain ground. With both teams still hanging in the balance, Day 5 promises to be an exciting conclusion.

 

Also Read

India vs England Test Series 2025: Full Schedules, Venues, Full Squads, Etc.

ENG v IND 2025 5th Test Day 3: Jaiswal’s Ton, England Target 374