The fifth test between India and England in the oval is on the way to a tense finish. England only needs 35 runs to win the game and to seal the 3-1 series. But the mood in the English camp is mixed.
Joe Root, who scored a brilliant 105 in the second innings, spoke with the media after the end of the day 4. He admitted that he was frustrated not to finish the game himself.
“I should have hit that for four. It was my mistake,” said Root, thinking about his resignation.
England was 339 for 6 when poor light and rain stopped playing. With just a few points to win, the game is still open, especially with the new ball that has to appear early on day 5.
Chris Woakes will hit despite an injury
Root confirmed that all -rounder Chris Woakes will come out, even though he is injured. Woakes hurt his shoulder during the field on day 1 and have not bent or beaten since then.
But Root said, “You saw him in whites … Chris Woakes is completely in!”
He praised Woakes for showing the same spirit rishabh pant had previously shown in the series while beating with an injury.
Carrot jokes about Siraj
Joe Root also had a light moment during the press conference. He joked about the Indian Pacer Mohammed Siraj.
“Siraj has this fake,” smiled root. “But I enjoy playing against him. He gives it all.”
India, although under pressure, will hope for a final turn. With the new ball and the lower order of England on the left, they need early wickets on day 5. Prasidh Krishna and Siraj will again lead.
England is still favorites to win, but India needs a miracle to draw the 2-2 series.
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