India have played 17 Test matches at The Oval. Of those, the visitors have secured just two victories, suffered six defeats, and drawn nine encounters. Interestingly, 16 of these matches were against England, with the lone exception being the World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2023 against Australia
India's overall record at The Oval remains modest. In their last six appearances at this ground, they have suffered four defeats (Photo: BCCI)
The spotlight now turns to London, where the iconic Kennington Oval is set to host the fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. With England holding a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, India will aim to level the contest, while the Ben Stokes-led side eyes a series-clinching victory on home soil.
India’s Test record at Kennington Oval
India have played 17 Test matches at The Oval. Of those, the visitors have secured just two victories, suffered six defeats, and drawn nine encounters. Interestingly, 16 of these matches were against England, with the lone exception being the World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2023 against Australia.
India's maiden win at The Oval came during the historic 1971 tour under the leadership of Ajit Wadekar, that marked India’s first-ever Test series victory in England. Their most recent success at the venue came in 2021, when Virat Kohli's side registered a memorable 157-run win, courtesy of stellar performances with both bat and ball.
However, India's overall record at The Oval remains modest. In their last six appearances at this ground, they have suffered four defeats.
India’s concerns ahead of 5th Test
India enter the decisive clash with a number of injury concerns. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been ruled out due to a toe fracture sustained in the fourth Test. In his absence, young Dhruv Jurel is expected to take over the gloves.
Adding to the uncertainty is the status of Jasprit Bumrah. The ace pacer, who has already played three matches in the series, was initially expected to be rested in at least one Test as part of his workload management plan. The final decision regarding his inclusion will likely rest with the team management, medical staff, and captain Rohit Sharma.
Traditionally, the Kennington Oval pitch is known to be batting-friendly, especially in the early stages of the match. Runs are generally plentiful, and bowlers often have to work hard for breakthroughs. Given India’s bowling concerns and a lack of experienced reinforcements, the balance of the playing XI will be crucial.
With the series on the line, India will need a strong all-round performance to overcome the odds and salvage a drawn series. England, on the other hand, will look to capitalise on home conditions and finish with a dominant 3-1 result.
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