August 4, 2025: In a gripping finale that kept fans on the edge of their seats, India defeated England by 6 runs in the fifth and final Test at The Oval, wrapping up the series in unforgettable fashion. After a stunning recovery from India on Day 4, the final day saw a scintillating display of fast bowling from Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, whose combined brilliance clinched a memorable victory, allowing India to level the series 2-2 and retain the prestigious Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
IndvsEng: India Defeats England in Final Test with Siraj’s Match-Winning Spell
England’s Near-Miss: Root and Brook’s Centuries Almost Seal Victory
The day started with England needing just 35 runs to win, a task that seemed almost straightforward after Joe Root and Harry Brook’s centuries had put them in the driver’s seat on Day 4. England was cruising towards victory as Prasidh Krishna’s first two deliveries leaked boundaries. However, the complexion of the game changed rapidly, thanks to a brilliant spell from Mohammed Siraj, who single-handedly turned the match on its head.
Siraj’s Stunning Spell: A Match-Winning Performance
Siraj, known for his knack of breaking partnerships at crucial moments, was at his very best. The pacer struck in his very first over of the day, dismissing Jamie Smith with a beauty that moved late and had him caught behind by Dhruv Jurel. The crowd was left in shock moments later when Siraj got Gus Atkinson to edge just short of KL Rahul at slip. The pressure kept mounting on England, and Siraj wasn’t finished yet.
In his next over, he trapped Jamie Overton LBW with a ball that clipped leg stump, and after the review, the decision stood. India was breathing life into the match, and the tension grew with every ball.
Krishna’s Contribution: The Final Blow
Prasidh Krishna, who had already made an impact on Day 4, returned to the attack and almost had Josh Tongue LBW, but a successful review saved the England batter. However, Krishna wouldn’t be denied for long. A couple of overs later, he bowled a magnificent delivery to clean bowl Tongue, leaving England needing 11 more runs with just one wicket remaining.
The Drama of Chris Woakes
As if the tension couldn’t rise any further, England’s Chris Woakes made an unexpected appearance at the crease. Woakes, who had injured his shoulder diving on Day 1, was forced to bat left-handed and with only one hand. The sight of Woakes batting with a makeshift approach stunned the spectators, but his gritty effort couldn’t help England stave off the inevitable.
Atkinson, trying to protect Woakes, smashed Siraj for a six, but he couldn’t survive for long. Siraj bowled him through the gate, sending the Indian players into wild celebrations and securing a heart-stopping 6-run victory for India.
Final Scores:
- India: 224 & 396 (85.1 overs)
- England: 247 & 367 (85.1 overs)
India won by 6 runs.
Key Performances:
- Mohammed Siraj: 5/39 (match-winning spell)
- Prasidh Krishna: 4/79
- Joe Root: 121 (century)
- Harry Brook: 106 (century)
India’s Victory: A Memorable Comeback
After a tense Day 4 where India looked down and out, Siraj and Krishna’s inspired spells in the final session helped India roar back into contention. The collapse of centurions Joe Root and Harry Brook within 36 runs, combined with the fall of three other wickets, saw England lose control of the match. The final day was a nerve-wracking affair, and as Siraj and Krishna tightened the noose, it was clear that India had the upper hand.
This thrilling victory not only secured India’s 6-run win but also leveled the series at 2-2, ensuring they would hold onto the coveted Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy for another year.
With the series drawn and India retaining the trophy, the cricketing world looks forward to more intense battles between these two cricketing giants. As for England, they will have to reflect on a dramatic loss that slipped away from them after being in such a dominant position.
