London, August 4, 2025: India pulled off a dramatic six-run victory against England on the final day of the fifth Test at The Oval, squaring the fiercely contested five-match series 2-2.
Set a challenging target of 374, England resumed Day 5 at 339/6, needing just 35 more runs for victory with Jamie Smith (2)* and Jamie Overton (0)* at the crease. But India’s bowlers, led by Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, turned the match on its head with a relentless attack that saw England collapse for 367.
Despite heroic centuries from Harry Brook (111 off 98 balls) and Joe Root (105 off 152), the English batting order faltered at the final hurdle. Brook’s explosive innings featured 14 fours and 2 sixes, while Root anchored the chase with typical elegance. Opener Ben Duckett chipped in with 54, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to deliver, with five batters falling for single-digit scores.
India’s pace duo of Siraj (4/83) and Krishna (4/61) were instrumental in dismantling England’s middle and lower order, applying constant pressure on the final morning.
Earlier in the match, India had staged a strong second-innings comeback, posting 396 to set up the fourth-innings challenge. Yashasvi Jaiswal starred with a fluent 118, while Akash Deep impressed with 66. All-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar added valuable half-centuries (53 each) to stretch the lead.
England’s bowling was spearheaded by Josh Tongue, who claimed 5/94, with support from Gus Atkinson (3/88) and Jamie Overton (2/61).
In the first innings, India were bowled out for 224, with Karun Nair top-scoring with 57. Atkinson took 5/52, while Tongue (3) and Woakes (1) shared the remaining wickets.
England replied with 247, taking a slender lead. Brook once again led the charge with 53, but Siraj (5/58) and Krishna (4/70) combined brilliantly to restrict the hosts and keep the match finely balanced.
With the win, India ensured the series ended in a draw, bouncing back strongly after trailing 2-1 earlier. Their spirited fightback in the final Test not only silenced critics but also underlined the team’s depth and resilience.
This contest will be remembered for its intense swings, standout performances, and a thrilling finale that left cricket fans on the edge of their seats.
