The third ODI between England and the West Indies at The Oval on June 3, 2025, got underway with an unusual twist. The notorious traffic of London held up the West Indies team's arrival, advancing the 1:00 PM start. ECB confirmed the visitors were held up in "heavy traffic," as England had to warm up by themselves with drizzle threatening the high-scoring Oval pitch.

Coinciding with World Bicycle Day, England cricketers converted the delay into a viral event. A video published on England Cricket displayed the team riding bicycles along London's roads to avoid traffic, reaching The Oval with big smiles. The lighthearted prank, well-timed to coincide with the international celebration of cycling, reflected their flexibility and provided a sunny mood ahead of the decisive match.

With the toss delayed to 1:10 PM upon the arrival of the West Indies, England faced high stakes. England, on top of the series at 2-0 and ranked eighth in ICC ODI rankings, wanted to gain crucial points. The ninth-ranked West Indies required a victory to enhance their prospects for direct qualification to the 2027 World Cup, and thus the game was tight on a bat-friendly surface. 

Match Stakes and Weather Watch

For the West Indies, winning is essential in order to boost their ICC rankings and remain in contention for the World Cup, while England aim to secure their position. The weather forecast at The Oval indicates light drizzle with a 30–40% chance of rain in the afternoon, with possible interference but not enough to rain out the game completely.

Watch the video here

Arriving at the ground in style 😎

Only one way to beat the road closures in London 😂 pic.twitter.com/2xrSPypnQD

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 3, 2025

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Ground staff are attuned to manage minor delays, and having no reserve day, the two teams will strive for a outcome. The initial mayhem has raised expectations only for an exciting encounter under overcast London skies.