India mounted a stirring comeback in the post-lunch session on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test at The Oval, reducing England to 242 for 8 before rain halted their charge late in the day. Despite England taking a slender 18-run lead in the first innings, the visitors clawed their way back into the contest with a disciplined bowling display after being outplayed in the morning.

Resuming at 109 for 1 after a dominant first session, England seemed poised to build a substantial lead. However, India struck back with relentless pressure, claiming six wickets for just 106 runs in the second session. The turnaround was triggered by sharper bowling lines, improved field placements, and a visible shift in body language after lunch.

India had earlier been dismissed for 224 earlier in the day, with England’s pacers wrapping up the tail efficiently after resuming from the overnight score of 204 for 6. The home side began their reply with a blistering start, thanks to the aggressive opening partnership between Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett. But the momentum shifted sharply as the Indian bowlers tightened their lines and the pitch began to offer subtle assistance.