India, Aug. 3 -- Nightwatchman Akash Deep produced an unforgettable counterattack on the third day's morning at the Oval Test, smashing a maiden Test half-century that left England flustered and off balance. With India trailing and the ball doing just enough, Akash showed no interest in mere survival. He walked out with intent and immediately set the tone, launching Jacob Bethell for a boundary in the very first over. That fearless mindset didn't waver, even when England turned to pace; Akash went after Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue with gusto, slashing hard, living dangerously, and reaping the rewards.

A mistimed pull to Overton ended his gritty 66 off 94, but by then, he had already stitched a 107-run stand with Yashasvi Jaiswal. India ...