ENG vs IND: Weather Forecast for Day 1 of Oval Test

Team India and England are gearing up for the fifth and final Test match of the ongoing series, scheduled to begin on 31 July at The Oval. The hosts are leading the series 2-1 and had a great chance to seal the series during the fourth Test in Manchester. But India’s batters pulled off a fantastic comeback to salvage a draw.

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Now, it’s a must-win clash for the visitors to avoid a series loss. However, the weather forecast adds uncertainty to the outcome. According to AccuWeather, rain could play a spoilsport on Day One of the Oval Test, with a 90% chance of precipitation. This prediction could frustrate fans, but even more so Team India, who wouldn’t want a shortened game in a must-win situation.

Fitness concerns in both camps

Meanwhile, changes could be on the cards for India. After a tough debut in Manchester, Anshul Kamboj is unlikely to get another opportunity in this Test. Both Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh were ruled out of the previous match due to groin and hand injuries, respectively, but are expected to be fit and available for selection at The Oval. 

Jasprit Bumrah has already played three Tests in this series — Leeds, Lord’s, and Manchester. Before the series began, the team management had stated that, due to workload management, Bumrah would likely play only three of the five Tests. Having already played three, his availability for the final match remains uncertain. Still, given the importance of the game, Indian fans will be hoping he plays.

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Rishabh Pant suffered a foot injury in the last game and now, ruled out of the series. N Jagadeesan has joined the team as his replacement. But most likely, Dhruv Jurel will get a chance in the playing XI as the wicketkeeper-batter option. 

As for England, they may have concerns of their own. Captain Ben Stokes looked in visible discomfort while bowling in the last Test, even though he went on to be named Player of the Match for his all-round performance. Whether he is fully fit and fresh for the final Test is something that will be watched closely.

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