03, August 2025: A brilliant display of batting from Joe Root and Harry Brook has put England on the brink of victory in the fifth and final Test against India. Despite rain and bad light interruptions on Day 4, the duo’s centuries have left England needing just 35 more runs to win. However, a late burst of wickets from the Indian pacers has injected some hope for the visitors, setting up a nail-biting finish for Monday’s final day.
Match Report: Day 4
England started the day at 50/1 and immediately went on the attack. Opener Ben Duckett notched a quick fifty before being dismissed by Prasidh Krishna for 54. Following Ollie Pope’s departure for 27, it was the partnership between Root and Brook that truly dominated the day.
The two Yorkshire lads batted with an aggressive intent that has become a hallmark of this England side. Brook, in particular, was sensational, reaching his 14th Test fifty off just 39 balls. Their 100-run stand came in a blistering 108 deliveries, as they consistently milked singles and found the boundary with ease. Brook’s remarkable form continued as he raced to his 10th Test century in just 91 balls, featuring 12 fours and two sixes.
He was eventually dismissed by Akash Deep for a magnificent 111, caught by Mohammed Siraj at mid-off, bringing an end to their formidable partnership. This wicket gave India a much-needed breakthrough, and their hopes grew even stronger when Root, after reaching his 39th Test ton, was dismissed by Prasidh Krishna for a well-made 105.
The late wickets of Jacob Bethell and Root have given India a glimmer of hope. With England at 339/6, they now face the challenge of scoring the remaining 35 runs with their lower order, especially with uncertainty over whether the injured Chris Woakes will be able to bat. The relentless bowling of Siraj, combined with key strikes from Krishna and Akash Deep, has ensured that India will make England fight for every last run on what promises to be a thrilling final day.
Looking back at the earlier parts of the match, India’s second innings saw stellar performances from Yashasvi Jaiswal (118) and nightwatchman Akash Deep (66), which helped them set a challenging target. However, it was England’s bowlers, led by Josh Tongue (5/125), who consistently chipped away at the Indian lineup. The first innings were dominated by bowlers from both sides, with Gus Atkinson (5/33) and Siraj (4/83) being the standout performers.
Brief Scores: England: 247 and 339/6 (Harry Brook 111, Joe Root 105; Prasidh Krishna 3/109) vs India: 224 and 396 (Yashasvi Jaiswal 118, Akash Deep 66; Josh Tongue 5/125).