The long, fiercely contested battle between England and India comes down to the wire, with the fifth and final Test of the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy beginning on July 31 at The Oval. England currently lead the series 2–1 and are one win away from clinching their first Test series victory against India since 2018. But India, buoyed by a gritty comeback in the fourth Test at Old Trafford, are not ready to hand over the newly minted trophy without a fight.
A win for India would level the series 2–2 and deny England a triumphant Bazball coronation at home. For England, it’s about sealing a dominant home summer. For India, it’s about pride, redemption, and proving that they can weather the storm and fight back under pressure.
Match Preview
Over four gripping Tests, England have had the upper hand with their aggressive ‘Bazball’ strategy—spearheaded by the adventurous duo of Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum. Their emphasis on rapid scoring, relentless pressure, and attacking fields has tilted the momentum in key moments.
India, however, are far from pushovers. The comeback at Old Trafford was not just about surviving—it was a defiant statement. Shubman Gill’s men held firm to force a draw on a testing pitch with a depleted squad, showing glimpses of the resilience that once made them giants in away conditions. Now, with the series still alive, the visitors must summon one final surge of energy and tactical sharpness.
All eyes are on whether England can ride the Bazball wave to glory—or if India, with their backs to the wall, can turn the tide and equal the series.
Weather and Pitch Report
The Oval in early August is traditionally kinder to batters during the first two days, with warm weather and relatively flat surfaces. Expect clear skies and good light early on, making it a favorable toss to win for any side looking to bat first and set the tone.
However, as the match progresses, wear and tear on the surface introduces turn and variable bounce. Spin and reverse swing become key factors—an area where India might hold a slight edge. If overcast conditions arrive late in the match, England’s pacers will fancy their chances too. In short, it's a classic Oval pitch—true early, tricky late.
Team News
India
The biggest blow for India ahead of the finale is the loss of Rishabh Pant, who suffered a fractured foot in the fourth Test. His absence is massive—not only for his batting fireworks but also his dynamic presence behind the stumps.
Narayan Jagadeesan has been brought in as his replacement, though Dhruv Jurel is likely to take the gloves. The rest of the squad could see at least three changes, with Ravichandran Ashwin advocating for bolder bowling choices.
Sourav Ganguly, never one to hold back, has backed the inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav—a left-arm wrist spinner who could be lethal if the pitch wears by Day 3 or 4. Jasprit Bumrah, recovering from a minor injury, is expected to return and lead the pace attack if declared fit. His presence alone could be a game-changer.
England
The hosts have bolstered their squad by recalling Jamie Overton—marking a return to the Test fold after three years. His extra pace adds fresh energy to the bowling department, which has shown signs of fatigue across the series.
Ben Stokes, nursing a bicep tendon issue, remains committed to leading the team. Having bowled 140 overs already in the series, there were concerns he might sit out. But the England captain has declared himself available, stating it’s “very unlikely” he will miss the decider.
Ollie Pope continues to be a steady presence at number three, though his series returns have fluctuated. He remains central to England’s plans, especially in stitching together long partnerships with Joe Root and Ben Stokes.
Probable Playing XI
England (expected):
Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope (vc), Joe Root, Ben Stokes (c), Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (wk), Brydon Carse, Chris Woakes, Liam Dawson, Jamie Overton
India (expected):
Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill (c), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep
Key Players to Watch
India
Shubman Gill:
The young captain has been India’s standout performer with the bat—scoring four centuries in this series, including a sensational double ton at Edgbaston. With composure, class, and an eye for big moments, Gill’s role at the top will again be decisive, especially on a batting-friendly pitch.
Jasprit Bumrah:
India’s spearhead could return just in time to deliver the goods with the red ball. Whether it’s new-ball seam or late reverse swing, Bumrah’s versatility makes him a dangerous weapon—especially if conditions turn cloudy or dry up mid-match.
England
Ben Stokes:
He’s been England’s soul this series—gritty runs, 17 wickets, and a never-say-die attitude. Despite being less than 100% fit, his impact with both bat and ball remains game-defining. If Stokes performs, England’s odds rise significantly.
Joe Root:
The former captain has quietly gone about his business with a century and crucial knocks under pressure. Root’s calmness at the crease and ability to rotate strike will be vital in seeing off India’s varied bowling attack.
Match Prediction
There’s more than a trophy at stake here—it’s about pride, control, and narrative. England start with the upper hand: home conditions, greater bowling variety with Overton’s return, and confidence in their Bazball ethos. The Oval suits their aggressive approach: bat deep, bowl fast, and push hard for wins.
But India aren’t out of this yet. They’ve shown resolve in Manchester, and the return of Bumrah alongside the likely inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav strengthens their bowling arsenal. If they can bat big in the first innings and apply pressure through spin, India have a clear path to level the series.
The toss could be crucial. A dry pitch favors India’s spin trio. A green top, under clouds, swings things England’s way.
Prediction: England enter as marginal favourites to win the match and take the series 3–1. But don’t rule out an Indian resurgence—especially if Gill fires and Kuldeep rips through the middle order. A dramatic draw or even a historic Indian win remains within reach. The Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy is still up for grabs.