IND vs ENG: India Favourites to Win? Former India pacer give strong verdict ahead of Day 5

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The stage is set for a nail-biting Day 5 at The Oval in the epic 5th Test between India and England, with England needing just 35 runs to clinch the series 3-1, while India requires four crucial wickets to level the contest 2-2.

England's resolute batsmen Harry Brook and Joe Root carved out a commanding partnership, but Prasidh Krishna's twin strikes and renewed intensity from India's bowlers have thrown the finish wide open, promising thrilling moments ahead.

England will look to capitalize on their position and complete a historic chase of 374 runs, a record at The Oval that has stood since 1902. Although the hosts need only 35 runs to seal the series, former India and England bowlers have given a clear advantage to India ahead of the final act.

The rain in the final hour of the Day 4 halted the match, which meant India and England will have to come out for the final bits on Monday. And former India pacer Varun Aaron thinks the hiatus can become a boon for the visitors.

"This team has travelled all the way from India and dominated large parts of the series. A series draw is the least they deserve. A loss from this position would really hurt. But after that spirited bowling spell post-tea, I genuinely believe India are now in a position to win this match," said Varun Aaron at the end of Day 4 on Jio Hotstar.

Aaron also credited the fans at the Oval for their relentless chants and support behind the India bowlers.

"Talking about the fans, it really felt like I was watching the game at Wankhede. There were Ganpati chants, India chants-I couldn't hear the English supporters at all. The Indian supporters are out in huge numbers, and I think it's their energy that the Indian team is feeding off," he added.

The Indian bowlers will have to get four wickets as Chris Woakes is expected to come out and bat if needed. The English all-rounder suffered a shoulder injury and was ruled out of bowling, but will be appearing with the willow on the final day of the series.