TimesofIndia.com in London: England pacer Josh Tongue admitted that bowling a bowler brief on Day 3 was at all times going to be a troublesome problem, however remained calm concerning the fourth-innings chase because the hosts have been set a frightening 374-run goal by India within the ultimate Take a look at at The Oval. “It was at all times going to be a troublesome ask for us bowlers,” mentioned Tongue after stumps on Saturday. “However we’re fairly chilled. Not overthinking the goal. With the batting line-up we’ve acquired, there’s no cause why we will’t chase it.” Tongue additionally spoke about how the pitch has modified over the course of three days. “There was a bit in it early on, however the heavy curler appeared to flatten it. Nonetheless, the odd one is leaping from size.” When requested a few potential Ashes tour later this 12 months, the quick bowler brushed it apart. “Not considering forward proper now,” he mentioned. Tongue, who was taken for a couple of by nightwatchman Akash Deep, admitted the lower-order runs have been irritating. “He acquired a couple of runs. That damage.”

India had earlier taken cost of the match with a fantastic hundred from Yashasvi Jaiswal and a fiery 66 from Akash Deep, who shared a century stand within the morning session. Washington Sundar then smashed a 46-ball 53 as India set a file goal of 374 — the very best ever set at The Oval in Take a look at cricket. On the shut of play, England have been 50 for 1, with Siraj eradicating Crawley simply earlier than stumps. With two full days left, the match continues to be open, although India look firmly on prime. England’s strategy on Day 4 may outline the Take a look at and maybe the collection.