India is set to chase a series-levelling victory against England on Day 4 of the 5th Test at The Oval. After three action-packed days, the match is poised for a dramatic finish, with England currently leading the series 2-1. India aims to capitalize on their momentum after a strong batting performance on Day 3, setting England a target of 374 runs.

Day 3 Highlights:

India ended their second innings with 396 runs, thanks to a century from Yashasvi Jaiswal (118) and half-centuries from Ravindra Jadeja (53) and Washington Sundar (53). Nightwatchman Akash Deep also contributed a notable 66 runs. England started their chase steadily, but Mohammed Siraj dismissed Zak Crawley (14) on the final ball of the day, leaving England at 50/1.

England's Chase:

England needs 374 runs to win the Test and secure the series. This would be their second-highest successful chase in Tests, only surpassed by the 378 runs they chased against India at Edgbaston in 2022. Key players like Ben Duckett (34*) and Joe Root are expected to play crucial roles in the chase. However, with Chris Woakes injured, England has only 10 batters available, meaning India needs to take just 8 wickets to win.

Indian Bowling Attack:

India's bowling attack, led by Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, will aim to exploit the variable bounce in the pitch. Spinners will also play a key role as the pitch deteriorates. India will be wary of Ben Duckett, Joe Root, and Harry Brook, who are all capable of turning the match in England's favor.

Weather Forecast:

The weather forecast for Day 4 predicts cloudy conditions with a 40-50% chance of light rain, particularly in the afternoon. The temperature is expected to be between 18°C and 22°C, with humid conditions that could assist the bowlers. Both teams will be hoping for an uninterrupted day of play, but India will especially look for conditions that favor their bowling attack.

Key Players to Watch:

• Yashasvi Jaiswal: The young Indian opener is in excellent form, scoring his fourth Test century against England.
• Ravindra Jadeja: Jadeja's contributions with both bat and ball will be crucial for India.
• Mohammed Siraj: Siraj's late wicket of Crawley on Day 3 has given India momentum. His performance on Day 4 will be critical.
• Joe Root: Root has a strong record on Day 4 at The Oval and will be under pressure to deliver a substantial innings for England.
• Ben Duckett: Duckett is at the crease and is capable of quickly pushing the score in the morning session, which will give England a lot of confidence.

Series Context:

A win for England would secure a 3-1 series victory, while a win for India would level the series 2-2. The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy hangs in the balance, adding extra significance to the outcome of Day 4.

The stage is set for a thrilling Day 4 at The Oval, with India aiming to level the series and England seeking to clinch a series victory.