England Need 35 Runs to Secure Series Victory at The Oval, Says Joe Root

England need 35 runs on the final day at The Oval to seal the series 3-1 and secure a major morale boost ahead of the Ashes, says captain Joe Root.

The hosts resumed on 339 for 6, chasing 374, after evening wickets and rain halted play. Root's 39th Test hundred powered a 195-run stand with Harry Brook, who scored a rapid 100, before Jamie Smith and Jamie Overton faced pressure from India's pacers.

"It's been a see-saw series and we're in a strong position," Root told INLIBER Test Match Special. "With the new ball and a fresh roller, there are plenty of things in our favour. We have experienced batters ready to finish the job on Monday."

Despite a shoulder issue, Chris Woakes is primed to bat if needed. Root admitted frustration at his dismissal by Prasidh Krishna but backed England's depth. "We have confidence in the dressing room," he added.

Delay was a "hammer blow" for India

India's seamers, led by Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, regained momentum after Brook and Root fell. Early wickets of Jacob Bethell, Overton and Smith came quickly, but deteriorating light and rain ended play, favouring the home side.

"The delay benefits England massively," former captain Sir Alastair Cook said. "India were on top and a win looked possible." WinViz gives England an 84% chance of victory, with Michael Vaughan predicting Jamie Smith to seal the chase.

England sit on the cusp of a 3-1 series win after a rollercoaster fifth Test, with a small target and favourable conditions setting up a tense final day.

This topic was reported by BBC.

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