Tensions rose on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Following a heated lead-up to the series finale, including a disagreement between India coach Gautam Gambhir and The Oval curator, the on-field atmosphere became intense, with both teams involved in verbal exchanges on Friday in London.
India’s pace attack led the charge, trying to unsettle the England batters after a tough morning session. Senior player KL Rahul threw his support behind the bowlers as they looked to disrupt the hosts’ rhythm. The situation escalated in the second session when Prasidh Krishna directed some words at Joe Root, aiming to shake the experienced batter.
Surprisingly, Root lost his cool and responded aggressively. The exchange intensified, prompting umpire Kumar Dharmasena to step in and defuse the situation. The Sri Lankan official was seen having a quiet word with Prasidh, seemingly advising the young quick to tone things down.
Prasidh turned up the intensity by provoking the usually calm Root, but KL Rahul appeared upset that only the Indian pacer was warned. He was seen questioning umpire Dharmasena about whether India was expected to remain silent in the face of sledging. You can watch the video here:
KL Rahul to Dharmasena:
"What do you want us to do, keep quiet?
"What do you want us to do, bat bowl and go home?"KL Rahul came to save Prasidh Krishnapic.twitter.com/a6la9HvZB5
— Farrago Abdullah Parody (@abdullah_0mar) August 1, 2025
Despite receiving a warning, Prasidh Krishna maintained his aggressive approach towards Joe Root in his following over, showing no signs of easing up. Interestingly, the sledging battle on Day 2 was initiated by Ben Duckett, who was caught on the stump mic teasing Akash Deep to try and get him out.
Duckett Leads England’s Aggressive Batting After Bowling Out India
Duckett spearheaded England’s attacking response with the bat after bowling India out for 224 in their first innings. Standing well outside the crease to counter swing, he used unconventional shots, including reverse sweeps, to disrupt the Indian bowlers’ rhythm.
Duckett, along with fellow opener Zak Crawley, took full advantage of Jasprit Bumrah’s absence, smashing 92 runs off just 77 balls. However, Duckett’s aggressive streak cost him as he was dismissed by Akash Deep while attempting another reverse sweep.
Akash Deep gave Duckett a pointed send-off as he walked back. England were 109/1 at lunch, but Siraj and Prasidh sparked a strong comeback, sharing eight wickets to bowl them out for 247. Although the hosts managed a narrow 23-run lead, India had the upper hand—especially with England set to chase on a pitch starting to deteriorate.
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