England Close to Historic Chase as Day 4 Ends—India Still Alive
At the end of a gripping Day 4 in the final Test at The Oval, England stood at 339/6, requiring just 35 more runs to register the highest successful run chase at this venue and secure a 3‑1 series victory. Despite the momentum shifting England’s way, late breakthroughs and the onset of rain kept India’s hopes alive.
Early Wickets & India Fighting Back
India struck early when Mohammed Siraj trapped Ollie Pope lbw for 27, and Prasidh Krishna castled Ben Duckett (54) with a sharp delivery. England were 164/3 at lunch and 239/3 approaching mid‑afternoon—still behind the rate required but present in the contest.
Brook‑Root Stand Changes Game
Harry Brook (111)** and **Joe Root (105)** shared a game‑changing 195‑run stand off just 211 deliveries, turning the match dramatically in England’s favour. Brook was controversially dropped early by Siraj—who stepped onto the boundary rope converting a catch into a six—and never looked back.
India’s Late Strikes
After the stand, India struck back with the dismissals of Brook and Root—though both had already made centuries. Later, Prasidh Krishna uprooted Jacob Bethell, keeping India in the contest. Some fielding lapses and a brilliant yorker to dismiss Crawley also stemmed England’s momentum momentarily.
Weather Stops Play
As England neared their target, **rain and bad light** forced play to be called off at 6:04 pm BST with England still 35 runs short and India needing four more wickets to level the series. With Chris Woakes injured and limited time left, the final day promises one of the most thrilling finishes in recent Test history.
Series Stakes & What’s Next
If England win the replay on Day 5, they’ll clinch the series 3‑1. India, looking to force a 2‑2 draw, must take four wickets against only one more new ball and a jet‑lagged attack. Both teams find themselves in an exhilarating battle of nerves and skill.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| England at Stumps | 339/6 needing 35 runs |
| Key Partnership | Brook (111) & Root (105) – 195‑run stand |
| Major Wickets | Pope, Duckett, Root, Bethell |
| Weather | Play halted due to rain & bad light |
| Series Score | If England win: 3‑1; if India take 4 wickets: 2‑2 draw |
FAQs
How close did England get to winning on Day 4?
England were 339/6 at stumps, needing just 35 runs to win the match and seal the series.
Who formed the key partnership for England?
Harry Brook (111) and Joe Root (105) stitched a 195‑run stand that nearly sealed the match.
What setbacks did India create despite trailing?
India dismissed Duckett, Pope, Root, and Bethell through disciplined bowling and a Siraj yorker to Crawley turned a wicket. These breakthroughs kept them alive.
Disclaimer: This piece is based on multiple news reports. Please verify independently before making any decisions based on it.
Thank you for visiting Cricket In Focus! Explore more in our Test, India, and Latest Cricket Updates sections.
Discover more from Cricket In Focus
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
