England vs India 2018: Reasons why India can still win the 5th Test

Another overseas series loss has left the Indian fans disappointed. A win at Trent Bridge had created a hope that India was on the cusp of a historic series win. This did not live long as they suffered a defeat at Southampton and thereby surrendered the series to England.

This is the time for retrospection and to address the shortcomings. One of the good things about this team under Kohli is that they know how to make a comeback after a defeat.

Let us look at the reasons why Indian can still win the 5th Test.

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#1 The Indian pace trio have been extraordinary

The Indian pace trio of Bumrah, Shami and Ishant have been in exemplary form. They have troubled the English batsmen with pace and swing.

Bumrah with his slinging action has been terrific with the new ball and has moved the ball away from the right-handers with ease. Shami has moved the ball both ways and has been effective with both the new and old ball alike. Ishant has troubled the left-handers in the opposition camp with the ball tailing away.

The Indian pace attack has been consistent with their line and length and managed to dismiss the English twice in three Tests.

Going into the fifth Test, the Indian pacers will look to continue their ominous form and win it for India.

#2 Middle-order has been scoring runs

Kohli and Rahane have been in good form

Though the opening slot has been Achilles Heel for India, the middle-order has been in good touch. Pujara, Kohli and Rahane have been in terrific form in the last few Tests.

Kohli has already amassed a mammoth 500 plus runs. Pujara scored a magnificent century in the last Test which earned India a vital first innings lead. Rahane has been involved with Kohli in a couple of century stands in the series.

Indian would expect one of the middle-order batsmen to score a big hundred at The Oval.

#3 Nair and Karthik can provide experience in the lower middle-order

Nair should be roped in place of Pandya

Nair should be brought in place of Pandya. He is a gritty middle-order batsman who can bat long. He already has a triple century against his name, which is a testament to his capability as a batsman in the longer format.

Karthik has a wealth of experience which can be useful in tight match situations. He should replace Pant.

Nair and Karthik will provide stability to the lower middle-order whose minimal contribution with the bat has plagued the Indian team in this series.

#4 Jadeja in place of Ashwin will provide an attacking option

Jadeja should be back for the fifth Test

A half-fit Ashwin did not help India's cause in the fourth Test as they could not manage to restrict England to a small total in the third innings.

Jadeja in place of Ashwin will give a fresh look to the Indian attack. His ability to bat will certainly boost the lower order as well.

#5 Win the toss and bat first

The toss has been crucial in this series

Kohli would hope to win the toss and bat first. Most of the overseas wins for India have come when they have batted first.

India should take heart from the fact that they have been competitive in the series. There have been certain lapses which have cost India the game but they can hope to comeback. They would look to avoid those in the upcoming Test and push for a win.