Day 1 of the fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy turned out to be a testing day for the Indian batters, as they finished at 204/6 in 64 overs at stumps. Rain interruptions and overcast conditions at The Oval played a key role, with England firmly in control after an impressive bowling display.
The day began on a damp note, with the first session starting late due to persistent drizzle. Play eventually got underway at 10:00 GMT (3:30 PM IST), after England captain Ollie Pope won the toss and elected to bowl first on a green-tinged surface.
India got off to a shaky start, losing both openers—Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul—within the first 15 overs. The overcast skies and lateral movement provided ample assistance to the English seamers early on. Rain returned midway through the first session, limiting the second session to fewer than eight overs.
Indian skipper Shubman Gill was run out in an unfortunate mix-up, brilliantly effected by Gus Atkinson, further denting India’s progress. As the skies cleared for the final session, India showed signs of resistance.
Karun Nair stood tall amid the collapse, anchoring the innings with a patient unbeaten 52 off 98 deliveries. He found a reliable partner in Washington Sundar, who contributed with a steady knock, helping India cross the 200-run mark. The duo stitched together a valuable 51-run partnership for the seventh wicket and will look to continue the fightback on Day 2.
England’s standout performer was local favourite Gus Atkinson, who impressed on his home ground. He was involved in three key dismissals—running out Shubman Gill and picking up the wickets of Jaiswal and Dhruv Jurel. Atkinson’s all-round contribution ensured England maintained the upper hand throughout the day.
With England leading the series 2-1, Ollie Pope’s side are well-positioned to clinch the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. India, meanwhile, will rely heavily on the Nair-Sundar partnership to steer them to a respectable first-innings total when play resumes on Day 2.