Siraj’s Five-Fer Seals Historic 6-Run Win as India Levels Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy
Gill’s Grit and Siraj’s Firepower Lead India to Epic Test Victory at The Oval
India eked out a stunning six run victory on Day 5 to level the Anderson Tendulkar Trophy series at 2–2
With England needing just 35 runs and four wickets in hand, the
match hung in the balance. A fiery spell from Mohammed Siraj (5 for 104),
including the final-ball yorker to dismiss Gus Atkinson, swung it back to India.
England’s lower order showed resolve, especially Chris Woakes,
who heroically came out to bat with a dislocated shoulder in a sling, though he
didn't face a ball.
His bravery, along with contributions from Jamie Smith and
Overton, added to the drama—but they fell just short.
The match-ending scenes were emotional: India celebrated their
narrowest-ever Test win, while England lamented a heartbreaking collapse from
339 for 6, needing still 35 runs up at stumps on Day 4.
Siraj finished as the series’ leading wicket taker with 23
wickets, carrying India’s pace attack through intense conditions.
Meanwhile, Indian captain Shubman Gill topped the series run
charts with 754 runs at an average of 83.78, anchoring many crucial innings.
The game concluded in a fitting manner for one of the most
intensely fought Test series in recent memory: India’s mental fortitude,
Siraj’s decisive performance, and Woakes’ courage ensured this match will long
be remembered as a classic.
Man of the Match: Shubman Gill (IND) – Named for his composed
batting under intense pressure on Day 5 that set up India’s seismic 6-run win.
Player of the Series: Harry Brook (ENG) – Honoured despite
England’s near-miss in the finale, after a richly productive series with the
bat.
