With Karun Nair emerging as the steadying presence, India ended day one at 204 for 6 after being sent in to bat in the fifth and final Test against England at The Oval. England, who are being led by stand-in captain Ollie Pope, decided to bowl and capitalised early with the new ball, striking at regular intervals to keep India on the back foot. India’s top order crumbled under pressure, with Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul and Shubman Gill departing for (2), (14) and (21), respectively.
Sai Sudharsan in the middle provided some resistance, scoring 38, while Karun Nair remained unbeaten on 52*. For England, Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue were the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2 for 31 and 2 for 47, respectively.
Heading into day two, India will look to add crucial runs to their total and put pressure back on England. Karun Nair and Washington Sundar will be expected to lead India’s batting efforts. while England will be keen to wrap up the innings quickly and have early control of the Test. Meanwhile, England were dealt a big blow after Chris Woakes suffered a shoulder injury. There is no confirmation yet whether he will participate in the match or not.