After a dominant morning session by England, India fought back strongly in the afternoon session on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test at The Oval, reducing England to 215-7 at tea. England had earlier dominated the morning, dismissing India for 224 after the overnight batters Karun Nair (57) and Washington Sundar (26) fell quickly. Gus Atkinson led the English attack, claiming his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket.

England's innings began aggressively, with Zak Crawley (64) and Ben Duckett (43) putting on a rapid 92-run opening stand in just 13 overs. However, Akash Deep provided the breakthrough by dismissing Duckett. England headed into lunch at 109/1, seemingly in control.

The afternoon session saw a dramatic shift in momentum as India's seamers fought back with disciplined bowling. Mohammed Siraj (3/66) and Prasidh Krishna (3/51) led the charge, striking at regular intervals. Siraj picked up the crucial wickets of Ollie Pope (22), Joe Root (29) and Jacob Bethell (6). Prasidh Krishna accounted for Zak Crawley (64), Jamie Smith (8) and Jamie Overton (0).

India's fightback was significant, as they claimed 6 wickets for just 87 runs in the second session. Prasidh Krishna took two wickets in an over, including the key wicket of Jamie Smith. At the tea break, Harry Brook remained unbeaten on 33. Chris Woakes was ruled out of the match due to injury, leaving England with only two wickets in hand.

Earlier in the day, England wrapped up the Indian innings quickly, taking the last four wickets for just 20 runs. Josh Tongue dismissed Karun Nair, while Gus Atkinson completed his five-wicket haul. India were eventually bowled out for 224.