India's Quick Learning Curve at The Oval

India's seamers faced a tough test at The Oval, but they managed to course-correct on the go and keep England's batsmen in check.

A Day of Unpredictability

The day started with India taking the light roller to preserve some juice in the pitch, but they lost their remaining wickets in just 28 minutes. England then brought out the heavy roller to smooth the pitch, setting the stage for their own batsmen.

Bazball Arrives at The Oval

The word "Bazball" has been used to describe England's aggressive approach to cricket, but on this day, it felt more like a reflex. The pitch was alive, and the opposition's total was middling, making it a perfect day for England to take risks.

India's Seamers Struggle to Find Form

India's seamers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, struggled to find their rhythm, and England's batsmen took advantage of the situation. Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley plundered 92 runs in 10 overs, with Duckett scoring a six off Siraj's full ball outside off.

A Spark from Akash Deep

Akash Deep gave India a spark by switching angles and coming over the wicket to Duckett, edging him to the keeper. This sparked a good spell from Akash, who bowled five tight overs (0 for 16) and then six more (0 for 18) from the Vauxhall End.

Siraj's Eight-Over Burst

Siraj bowled an eight-over burst (8-0-35-3) that was all heart and hostility, taking three wickets and setting the tone for the rest of the day. He bowled fuller on average, with more balls in the channel and hitting the stumps more often.

India's Fast Bowlers Hold the Day

India's fast bowlers, led by Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, held the day together, taking wickets and keeping England's batsmen in check. They managed to bend the day in their favor, and England's lead was reduced to just 23 runs.

A Day of Learning for India's Seamers

Today was a day of learning for India's seamers, who had to troubleshoot on the fly and find ways to lift each other and carry better body language. They managed to course-correct and keep England's batsmen in check, but it was a tough test for them.