As the highly anticipated 5th Test unfolds at The Oval, the spotlight naturally falls on India’s track record at this historic venue. Having contested numerous Tests here since 1971, India’s overall performance has been marked by both heartbreak and celebration. Let’s dive into the detailed win-loss record, standout performers, key stats, and what this means heading into the decider.
India’s Win-Loss-Draw Record at The Oval
India have played 17 Tests at The Oval, including 16 against England and one neutral match (the WTC final against Australia in 2023) The Sun+15Trade Brains+15The Times of India+15. Their record stands as:
- Won: 2
- Lost: 6
- Drawn: 9
India’s only wins came in 1971 and 2021, with the most recent Test victory being part of their celebrated 2021 series win in England Trade BrainsSportskeeda.
Timeline of India’s Victories at The Oval
1971 – Historic First Win
- Under Ajit Wadekar, India chased a huge target to win by 4 wickets. Sunil Gavaskar’s century and Chandrasekhar’s match-turning 6/38 helped seal one of India’s most iconic away victories Hindustan Times+2Wikipedia+2SeatUnique+2.
2021 – Breakthrough After 50 Years
- Led by Virat Kohli, India overturned a first innings deficit to win by 157 runs. Rohit Sharma’s century and fine support from Shardul Thakur and Umesh Yadav underpinned this rare roar at The Oval Wikipedia+3The Guardian+3SeatUnique+3.
Top Indian Batters at The Oval
- Rahul Dravid boasts the most impressive grounds record—averaging 110.75 across three Tests, including two centuries Hindustan Times.
- Among active players, KL Rahul leads the chart with 249 runs in just two matches, highlighted by a big 2018 knock Hindustan Times+1The Times of India+1.
- Sunil Gavaskar’s iconic 221 in the famous 1971 chase remains one of India’s most celebrated innings at the venue Hindustan Times+2Wikipedia+2Sportskeeda+2.
Leading Indian Wicket‑Takers at The Oval
- Ravindra Jadeja tops the bowling charts with 15 wickets in three Tests at The Oval, averaging around 30.5 per wicket Sportskeeda+1Hindustan Times+1.
- India’s best individual figures came from Chandrashekhar in 1971, whose 6/38 helped swing the match India’s way Wikipedia+1Hindustan Times+1.
Key Stats That Matter Right Now
- India have won only 2 of 17 Tests overall at The Oval, and lost 6—giving a win percentage of just under 12% TalkSport.
- Against England, the team has played 14, drawing 7, winning 2, and losing 5 Hindustan Times.
- Since 2021, modern India’s resurgence at The Oval gives some hope—but the historic weight remains heavy.
Why This Final Test is Crucial
- India trail the series 2–1 and need a win to seal the series 2–2 and boost their WTC points prospects.
- Despite the poor historical record, their recent showings—especially the grit at Old Trafford and confidence in top-order batting—could level the series indiatimes.com.
What Experts Are Saying
- talkSPORT suggests India’s series-batting consistency and strong totals may help them buck the venue trend and level the score with a win at The Oval, despite past struggles here TalkSport.
- Analysts also point out that if Shubman Gill continues his rich form, and India’s bowlers respond under pressure, the old Oval bogey could be broken once again.
Conclusion
India’s record at The Oval has historically been underwhelming—just 2 wins in 17 Tests and a long-standing struggle against English conditions. However, modern Indian cricket, led by rising stars and hardened resilience, has begun rewriting that narrative. As they take the field on August 1, the chance to salvage a series draw and celebrate their first Oval Test victory since 2021 hangs in the balance. Can they defy history once more?
FAQs
Q1: How many Tests has India won at The Oval?
India have won 2 Tests at The Oval—once in 1971 and again in 2021 The Times of IndiaSportskeeda.
Q2: How many matches has India lost at this venue?
They have lost 6 out of 17 Tests, including one neutral WTC final in 2023 Hindustan Times.
Q3: Who is India’s top run‑scorer at The Oval?
Rahul Dravid, averaging 110.75 in three Tests, including two centuries Hindustan TimesSportskeeda.
Q4: Which Indian bowler has taken the most wickets at The Oval?
Ravindra Jadeja, with 15 wickets across three matches and an average of around 30.5 Sportskeeda.
Q5: Can India still avoid defeat in this series?
Yes—if India win the 5th Test at The Oval, they will level the series 2–2 and claim a historic turnaround despite past venue struggles.
Nand Kishor is a content writer covering business, economy, and world affairs. With a background in journalism, he focuses on clear, ethical, and insightful reporting. Outside of work, he enjoys chess, cricket, and writing short stories.