The fifth and final Test of the 2025 India tour of England at The Oval has begun with a bang, delivering a day of high-octane cricket that has kept Starexch fans on the edge of their seats. With England leading 2-1 after a dramatic draw in Manchester, this series-deciding clash for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy is shaping up to be a classic. Day 1 saw England’s bowlers dominate early, but India’s resilient batting ensured a competitive score by stumps. As we look ahead to Day 2, here’s a review of the action and a preview of what’s to come, tailored for starexch users looking to stay ahead of the game.

Day 1 Review: England’s Bold Call, India’s Gritty Response

England’s stand-in captain Ollie Pope won the toss and opted to bowl first under overcast skies, a decision that sparked plenty of discussion on Starexch platforms. The green-tinged pitch and forecast for showers suggested early movement, and England’s seamers didn’t disappoint. Gus Atkinson (2/38) was the star, removing Yashasvi Jaiswal (caught behind after a reviewed decision) and KL Rahul to leave India at 72/2 by lunch. Josh Tongue complemented Atkinson’s fire with disciplined lines, keeping the pressure on India’s top order.

 

Only 64 overs were possible due to multiple rain interruptions, but the shortened day was packed with action. Shubman Gill, India’s captain, looked assured for his 15* before rain halted play, but the real hero for India was Karun Nair. Recalled to the Test side, Nair played a defiant 52* to guide India to 204/6 at stumps. His partnership with Ravindra Jadeja (unbeaten on 12*) frustrated England, who missed the injured Chris Woakes’ control in the final session. B Sai Sudharsan (28) and Dhruv Jurel fell late, giving England hope, but India’s lower order showed enough fight to keep the game in balance.For supporters following the game, Starexchange App offers an interactive means of remaining involved in the match's turn of events.

 

The day wasn’t without controversy. Tensions from the fractious Manchester Test—where England’s antics and India’s milestone-hunting drew criticism—spilled over. A heated exchange involving Gautam Gambhir and the Oval groundsman added spice, ensuring Starexch’s live forums buzzed with debates about on-field tempers and India’s resilience.

Key Performances:

  • Gus Atkinson (ENG): 2/38, including the wickets of Jaiswal and Rahul.

  • Karun Nair (IND): 52*, a gritty knock to keep India afloat.

  • Shubman Gill (IND): 15*, showing composure under pressure.

Day 2 Preview: Momentum Up for Grabs

Day 2 at The Oval promises to be a pivotal one, with India looking to build on their 204/6 and England aiming to wrap up the innings quickly. The weather forecast suggests a clearer day, though afternoon showers could still play a role, making early overs crucial for both sides. Starexch users can expect plenty of betting opportunities as the game swings.

What to Watch For:

  • India’s Lower Order: Karun Nair and Ravindra Jadeja hold the key for India. Jadeja’s ability to counterattack could push India past 250, a competitive total on this pitch. With Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj to follow, India will hope for quick runs before England’s bowlers, likely led by Atkinson and Jamie Overton, strike. Starexch markets on India’s total runs or Jadeja’s score could be worth exploring.

  • England’s Bowling Plans: Without Woakes, England’s attack lacked bite late on Day 1. Ollie Pope will rely on Atkinson’s pace and Tongue’s accuracy to exploit the morning conditions. If Kuldeep Yadav plays (a possible replacement for Shardul Thakur), England may target him early to expose the tail.

  • Pitch and Conditions: The Oval surface still has a green tinge, but it’s expected to ease slightly on Day 2. If cracks widen later, spinners like Jadeja or England’s Jacob Bethell could come into play. Starexch users might consider bets on session runs or wickets in the morning.

  • England’s Batting Response: If India are bowled out early, England’s openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett will face a fiery Indian attack led by Mohammed Siraj and possibly Akash Deep. With Jasprit Bumrah rested, India’s seamers need to step up. Starexch’s in-play markets on England’s first-innings runs or Crawley’s performance could see heavy action.

Players to Watch:

  • Ravindra Jadeja (IND): His dual role with bat and ball could tilt the game. After a stellar series, including a century in Manchester, Jadeja’s contribution is a hot topic on Starexch.

  • Gus Atkinson (ENG): His Day 1 spell showed why he’s England’s X-factor. Expect him to target India’s tail early.

  • Shubman Gill (IND): If he resumes batting, his ability to anchor or accelerate could set the tone for India.

Starexch Betting Insights:

  • Top India Batsman (Day 2): Karun Nair’s form makes him a solid pick, but Jadeja’s potential for quick runs offers value.

  • Total Runs in First Session: With possible morning swing, under 60 runs could be a safe bet.

  • England’s First Wicket Partnership: Crawley and Duckett’s aggressive style makes over 30 runs tempting if India’s bowlers stray.

The Bigger Picture

With England leading 2-1, India need a win to draw the series and retain the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. England, buoyed by their Lord’s thriller and Manchester dominance, will aim to seal the series at home. The Oval has historically favored India, with wins in 1971 and 2021, adding intrigue to this finale.

For Starexch users, the emotional stakes—fueled by recent on-field spats—make this Test a goldmine for live betting and engagement. Whether it’s backing India’s fightback or England’s bowling firepower, Day 2 offers endless possibilities to dive into the action.

Prediction for Day 2: India will aim to reach 270-300, but England’s bowlers could restrict them to 250. England’s openers may face a testing spell, setting up a tight contest by stumps. Keep an eye on Starexch’s live odds for session-by-session shifts.