England legend Stuart Broad criticized the match officials for their decision to end play early on Day 4 of the fifth and final Test against India at The Oval. Although the day’s play was halted due to rain, conditions had seemingly improved by the time an inspection was conducted, with the umpires arriving without umbrellas.
Despite the square and run-ups being covered and water still present on the sheets, Stuart Broad believed there was a genuine opportunity to resume play, noting that they were just 20 minutes away from a potential restart. He called the early stumps decision lazy and unfair to fans, questioning those who made the call.
“Still 20 mins away from possible start time, everyone has their sunglasses on at the train station. Felt the supporters deserved to see a finish to that Test Match today. Felt a lazy decision to call it off at 6pm in my opinion. I wonder who makes it?” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter)
Still 20 mins away from possible start time, everyone has their sunglasses on at the train station. Felt the supporters deserved to see a finish to that Test Match today. Felt a lazy decision to call it off at 6pm in my opinion. I wonder who makes it?
— Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) August 3, 2025
England ended Day 4 at 339 for 6, just 35 runs short of victory. The hosts might have wrapped up the match that day if not for the rain delay. Jamie Overton (0*) and Jamie Smith (2*) remained unbeaten at the crease.
Root And Brook Hundreds Power England Toward Series Win
Earlier in the day, Joe Root and Harry Brook struck centuries to put England firmly in control of the run chase. Root scored 105 off 152 deliveries, hitting 12 boundaries, while Brook made a brisk 111 off 98 balls, including 14 fours and two sixes. Together, they shared a 195-run partnership for the fourth wicket, taking England from 106/3 to 301/4.
Brook was given a reprieve by Mohammed Siraj when he was on 19 — a missed opportunity that proved costly for India. Although the visitors eventually dismissed both set batters, England had already reached 337 and now sit just 35 runs away from victory.
Leading the series 2-1, a win at The Oval would secure the series for England. India, needing four wickets on Day 5, will require an extraordinary effort to level the series.
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