England Drop Six Catches Aiding India’s Lead at Oval Test

England face a daunting target of 374 runs to win the fifth and deciding Test against India at The Oval, after a day marred by six dropped catches—their most at home since 2006—which allowed India to amass a formidable second-innings total. Zak Crawley was bowled by Mohammed Siraj in the final over of day three, leaving England at 50 for one and needing 324 more runs, with Ben Duckett unbeaten on 34. India's charge was led by Yashasvi Jaiswal's composed 118 and a surprise maiden Test fifty from nightwatchman Akash Deep, as well as a late onslaught by Washington Sundar. England’s depleted seam attack, missing Chris Woakes due to a dislocated shoulder, struggled despite Josh Tongue’s five-wicket haul, and poor fielding further compounded their woes. Assistant coach Marcus Trescothick acknowledged the frustration over missed opportunities but declined to blame fatigue. Rain is forecast for the final day, potentially complicating England’s hopes of pulling off a record chase at this venue.