The final day of the Oval Test between India and England is expected to be thrilling. As the match was called off early on Day 4 due to rain and poor light, it left the game hanging in the balance.
England need just 35 runs, while India are hunting for 4 wickets or possibly 3, depending on whether injured Chris Woakes comes out to bat.
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The pitch had started showing signs of life under overcast skies late on Day 4. Seamers were getting sharp movement, and India were back in the contest after being dominated for most of the day.
This has raised a big question ahead of Day 5- will the pitch behave differently, or can it be changed overnight?
Heavy roller! pic.twitter.com/0wScBHZ01q
— Sahil Malhotra (@Sahil_Malhotra1) August 4, 2025
Let’s break down what can and cannot happen with the surface on the final day of a Test match as per ICC rules.
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What do ICC rules say about rolling or altering the pitch during a Test?
The playing surface cannot be changed during a Test match. However, there are some specific types of maintenance allowed each day before play begins.
Here’s a look at what is officially permitted:
| Activity | Allowed on Day 5? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Rolling the pitch | Yes | For up to 7 minutes, if the batting captain requests it, before day’s play. |
| Clearing debris | Yes | Using sweeping or by hand, between innings, before play, and during meals. |
| Mowing | Yes | Pitch mowing 30 mins before play; outfield mowing 15 mins before play. |
| Re-marking the creases | Yes | Can be done anytime if the umpire feels it is needed. |
| Repairing bowlers’ footholes | Yes | Allowed during intervals or after play ends for the day. |
| Watering the pitch | No | Strictly prohibited once the match begins. |
| Using drying equipment | Yes (with limits) | Under umpire supervision, to make pitch playable after rain. |
| Artificial drying of outfield | Yes | Ground staff may dry the outfield anytime, even during the match. |
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What happens to the pitch overnight before a new day?
The Oval pitch won’t be watered or heavily altered overnight. However, basic maintenance is allowed to keep the game fair. These include:
Rolling (if requested) – This helps flatten minor wear and tear, but is limited to 7 minutes.
Foothole repairs – Damaged areas where bowlers land are often patched up.
Re-marking and clearing – Umpires ensure the creases and surface are match-ready.
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There is no provision for using a new strip or relaying the surface between days.
Will it rain on Day 5 at the Oval? Latest London weather report
The forecast for Day 5 at The Oval is mostly cloudy and breezy, with a 60% chance of afternoon showers. Wind gusts could reach up to 63 km/h, and the sun might stay hidden for most of the day.
When does play begin on Day 5 at The Oval?
Day 5 of the Oval Test is scheduled to begin at 11:00 AM local time (BST) or 3:30 PM IST. India are looking for a miracle comeback while England will back their lower order to get those 35 runs.