Tensions simmered at The Oval during the lunch break on Day 3 of the final Test between India and England, as a fiery exchange broke out between the hosts and Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. With India sitting comfortably and Jaiswal inching closer to yet another century, England’s attempts at psychological warfare ended up backfiring.
As Jaiswal and skipper Shubman Gill walked off the field following a dominant morning session, England’s Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, and stand-in captain Ollie Pope were seen having a go at the young Indian batter. The cameras captured the trio trying to provoke Jaiswal with some pointed words and gestures, clearly attempting to disrupt his rhythm before the next session.
But Jaiswal, known for his calm exterior and gritty mindset, didn’t take it lightly. When Ollie Pope mockingly mimicked Akash Deep’s animated celebration from Day 2—by tapping Jaiswal on the shoulder—it crossed a line. The Indian opener turned back and responded sharply, visibly irritated by the provocation.
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Heated words followed as players from both sides headed towards their respective dressing rooms, while team support staff looked on. The incident has since gone viral, with fans divided over England’s gamesmanship.
What a session for India! 🇮🇳
Some words exchanged between the players as they go off for lunch… 👀 pic.twitter.com/VvOj7h3O4C
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) August 2, 2025
On the cricketing front, India had an excellent morning session. Starting at 75/2, the visitors rode on a remarkable 107-run stand between Jaiswal and nightwatchman Akash Deep to seize the initiative. Akash, batting at No. 4, stunned everyone with his composure and intent. He smashed 66 off 94 deliveries, including a bold six in the day’s very first over off Jacob Bethell.
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Despite giving a couple of chances, Akash reached his maiden Test half-century with a crisp boundary off Gus Atkinson. His efforts were all the more impressive given England’s depleted attack, with Chris Woakes sidelined due to a shoulder issue. His fearless batting unsettled the English side and gave India a commanding edge in the high-stakes series decider.
