India’s bowlers turned the tide on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test against England at The Oval, putting in a spirited performance after being dismissed for just 224 earlier in the day. Led by Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, the Indian pace attack bounced back brilliantly to bowl out the hosts for 247, keeping the match evenly poised.
With India finishing the day at 75 for 2 and Yashasvi Jaiswal standing firm on 51*, the visitors clawed their way back into contention, trailing by just 23 runs with eight wickets in hand.
Siraj Opens Up About Bumrah Bond
After stumps, Siraj reflected on the emotional undercurrents within the team, particularly in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who missed the Test. The Hyderabad pacer shared a heartfelt exchange he had with his senior teammate before the match.
“I told Jassi bhai, ‘Why are you leaving? If I take five wickets, who will I hug?’ He laughed and said, ‘I’m still here, you just go get those five wickets,’” Siraj recalled with a smile.
Though he narrowly missed that five-wicket haul, Siraj’s fiery spell of 4 for 68 proved crucial in halting England’s early momentum. His animated celebrations and relentless energy sparked India’s resurgence in the field.
English Conditions Bring Out the Best in Siraj
Speaking further, Siraj highlighted how much he enjoys bowling in English conditions, where seam and swing offer fast bowlers a consistent edge.
“Everyone loves playing in England because there’s more swing, and it helps fast bowlers a lot,” he said. “To come back after a poor session and dominate feels very rewarding as a fast bowler.”
Prasidh Highlights Mental Reset Behind Comeback
Fellow quick Prasidh Krishna, who also bagged four wickets, emphasized the mental regrouping that helped the Indian bowlers reset and refocus during the innings break.
“The three of us – me, Siraj, and Akash had a quick chat. We agreed that what’s done is done. We just needed to stick to our plans, back each other completely, and make sure the whole team was aligned,” Prasidh explained.
The unity in approach paid off, as India’s pacers ran through England’s middle and lower order with sharp, disciplined bowling.
India’s Momentum Grows Heading into Day 3
On a day when 15 wickets fell, it was India’s fightback with the ball that stole the show. Despite a fragile first-innings score, the visitors refused to let the game slip. With a narrow lead already erased and two set batters at the crease, India now holds the upper hand heading into Day 3.
As the final Test hangs in the balance, the spirit and resilience of India’s pace trio could prove decisive in shaping the outcome of this hard-fought series.
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