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London, August 5: In a dramatic finish at The Oval, India defeated England by 6 runs in the fifth Test, leveling the five-match series 2-2. Mohammed Siraj’s fiery five-wicket haul and Prasidh Krishna’s crucial four-wicket spell dismantled England’s chase, sealing a thrilling victory for the visitors. Chasing 374, England fought hard but collapsed at 367, thanks to India’s lethal bowling attack. Siraj (5/84) and Krishna (4/82) were the architects of India’s win, with Siraj claiming the Player of the Match award. The pace duo combined to take 9 wickets in the second innings, ensuring India’s dramatic comeback. Captain Shubman Gill became only the third Indian skipper to win a Test at The Oval, joining Ajit Wadekar (1971) and Virat Kohli (2021). India needed just 4 wickets on the final day, and Siraj-Krishna delivered, wrapping up England’s innings in just 29 runs. England’s Joe Root (105) and Harry Brook (111) had kept the hosts in contention with a 195-run partnership. However, India’s bowlers struck late on Day 4, shifting momentum. Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja also contributed, but Siraj and Krishna stole the show. The 2-2 result highlights the fiercely competitive nature of the series. Siraj finished as the highest wicket-taker (23 scalps), proving his dominance. India’s resilience and tactical brilliance have set the stage for an exciting future in Test cricket. With the series drawn, both teams will now prepare for upcoming challenges. India’s dramatic win at The Oval has reignited hopes for a strong overseas season ahead.
