Follow UsEngland finds themselves in a familiar predicament, where they must either chase down a target of 324 runs in style, reminiscent of their performance in Leeds, or risk falling short like they did in Birmingham. With nine wickets in hand, the pressure is on.
On Day 3, India dominated with the bat, led by Yashasvi Jaiswal's second century of the series. Ravindra Jadeja added to the momentum with his sixth fifty-plus score, while Akash Deep played a surprising yet valuable innings, scoring 66 runs. Meanwhile, Washington Sundar smashed 53 off 46.
The England openers provided a decent start, putting up a 50-run partnership. However, Mohammed Siraj brought India back into the game by dismissing Zak Crawley in the final over of the day.
Here is what we can expect from Day 4 at The Oval:
Joe Root's series has been a mixed bag so far, marked by a couple of significant centuries amidst several early exits. However, he boasts a strong record on Day 4 at the Oval, where his average is notably his best across the five days at this venue. Having fallen for 29 to a brilliant delivery from Mohammed Siraj, Root will be under pressure to deliver a substantial innings. A big knock from him could be crucial in helping England win a Test series against India after a 7-year drought.
Jamie Smith got off to a flying start in the series, scoring a brilliant century in the first innings of the second Test in Birmingham. He was a lone bright spot in the second innings as well, holding one end with a gritty 88-run knock in a bid to salvage a draw, ultimately falling just short. With expectations high, Smith will be looking to replicate a similar performance in this match, this time with the aim of contributing to a winning cause.
Akash Deep has been in impressive form in the series so far in England. He delivered a standout performance in the 4th innings of the Birmingham Test, claiming a career-best 6/99, which played a pivotal role in India's thrilling win. With a similar situation unfolding at the Oval, Indian fans will be eagerly anticipating him to replicate his bowling heroics and make a significant impact on the match.