The Kia Oval is located in South London, serving as a premier location for Test cricket since its establishment 180 years ago. It was the first ground in England to host international Test cricket, and is now a guaranteed venue for England v India Test matches.

England and India are two of the strongest international cricket teams – and therefore have one of the fiercest rivalries. England v India Test cricket goes all the way back to 1932, and the first Test at The Oval was played in 1936. 

Let’s deep dive further into the history of this illustrious cricket ground and England v India Test matches, while we get ready for another series in July and August. You can book hospitality tickets now at Seat Unique, so read on to find out the incredible packages on offer.

Book England v India at The Oval hospitality

About The Oval

The Kia Oval is situated in Kennington, South London, and is the home of Surrey County Cricket Club. It was first established in 1845, and over time it also hosted football, rugby, hockey, and baseball matches. Another fun fact about its history is that it was the first cricket ground to have artificial lighting in the form of gas lamps.

Ever since its beginnings, The Oval has been a popular hub of professional cricket, hosting international teams and county tournaments. India was the fifth international team to play at The Oval, and it has since been a key ground every time the team visits for a Test series.

Key Moments in England vs. India History at The Oval

1971 – India’s Historic Victory

Captained by Ajit Wadekar, the India team were led to victory at The Oval for the first time in 1971. After scoring a century in the first innings it was already looking good, and despite England players trying their best, India still managed to take the victory by four wickets. It was a major milestone for the India cricket team, who notoriously struggle under the conditions in England.

2011 – England’s Comprehensive Win

India seemed to experience a lot of bad luck in the 2011 Test series, as right from the first Test they suffered injuries, bad weather, and spectacular defeat. England dominated the match, with India being bowled out for 300 in their second innings, and England ended up dominating with a win of an innings and eight runs.

2021 – India Bounces Back

This was one of the most historic moments for India at The Oval. India, led by Virat Kohli, secured a remarkable victory in the 2021 series, with Rohit Sharma scoring his first overseas century. India’s bowlers, including Shardul Thakur and Umesh Yadav, bowled out England in the final innings. After plenty of defeats on England soil, India proved why they’re not a team to be messed with.

Notable Players at The Oval

One of the notable India players over the years has been Sourav Ganguly, as his leadership and resilience helped lead India to great performances in 2002 and 2007, even if they didn’t win overall. His performance was often a bright spot despite bad overall scores. Rohit Sharma is also a player to note, as his first-ever century in overseas cricket helped India win the 2021 series.

On the England side, Kevin Pietersen was a key component to England’s dominance in the 2007 series. His 134 in the first innings was crucial in setting a competitive target for India, and his aggressive approach was a key factor in the outcome of the match. Another player key to England’s success was James Anderson, a bowler whose performance helped them easily win the 2011 Test series.

Get England v India at The Oval tickets

A day at the cricket in the August sun is the perfect way to spend your summertime – especially when it’s a thrilling Test between England and India. With England v India hospitality packages at Seat Unique, you can elevate your experience to one filled with luxury and elegance. 

Get padded seats directly behind the bowler’s arm, a private table in an exclusive hospitality lounge, or even a private box if you plan to go as a large party. With delicious three-course meals, champagne receptions and complimentary bars, and even visits from cricketing legends, it’ll truly be a day to remember.

There’s still time to book your place now, so don’t delay and treat yourself to a day in the sun watching action-packed England v India Test cricket at The Oval.

Book England v India at The Oval hospitality