LONDON, (Reuters) – England’s four-pronged pace attack bowled India out for 148 before the hosts reached 62 for no wicket in reply to take control of the fifth and final test on an absorbing first day at The Oval yesterday.
Only a battling knock of 82 by India captain MS Dhoni saved the tourists from complete collapse and his last-wicket partnership of 58 with Ishant Sharma was by far the largest stand of the innings.
England captain Alastair Cook and Sam Robson gave the home side a solid start and, leading the series 2-1, they are in a strong position to clinch it.
“To bowl them out for under 150 is fantastic, and the way the boys batted at the end was brilliant,” England all-rounder Chris Woakes told reporters after completing test-best figures of three for 30.
