India pulled off a sensational six-run win against England in the fifth and final Test at The Oval, levelling the five-match series 2-2 in dramatic fashion. Mohammed Siraj claimed a stunning five-wicket haul on Day 5 to hand India one of their narrowest Test wins ever.

England Collapse After Positive Start

Heading into Day 5, England were 196/4, requiring just 35 runs to win with six wickets in hand. With Joe Root well set and the pitch still playable despite overnight rain, the hosts looked on course for a series-clinching win.

However, under overcast skies that assisted swing, India came out firing. Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna ran through the remaining batting lineup, with England losing six wickets for just 30-odd runs.

Siraj Redeems Himself with Match-Winning Spell

Mohammed Siraj, who had faced criticism for dropping Harry Brook on Day 4, bounced back emphatically. He picked up key wickets including Tom Hartley and James Anderson before finishing the match by rattling Gus Atkinson's stumps with a searing yorker.

He ended with figures of 5/73, marking his best performance on English soil.

Brook’s Century Goes in Vain

Harry Brook’s blistering 111 on Day 4 had shifted momentum England’s way, especially after his 84-run partnership with Joe Root. But his late dismissal on Saturday proved pivotal, opening the door for India’s resurgence with the ball.

Prasidh Krishna Makes Crucial Impact

While Siraj grabbed the headlines, it was Prasidh Krishna who initiated England’s collapse late on Day 4. He dismissed Joe Root and debutant Jacob Bethell, and returned on Day 5 to add another scalp. He finished with 4 wickets in the match and played a key role in building pressure during the final hour.

Woakes’ Grit Not Enough

England's No. 11, Chris Woakes, who had suffered a shoulder dislocation earlier in the match, bravely came out to bat in the final moments. However, his presence couldn't change the outcome, as Siraj cleaned up the tail in dramatic fashion.

Captain Gill Praises Team Resilience

Shubman Gill, who led India in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, described the win as “special” and lauded Siraj as “a captain’s dream.” Gill, also named India’s Player of the Series, credited the team’s fightback under pressure.

Series Ends 2-2; India Retain Trophy

With this result, the Anthony de Mello Trophy remains with India. The five-Test series, full of intense battles and individual brilliance, concluded in fitting fashion with one of the closest Test wins in recent memory.

Match Summary

India: 303 & 373
England: 310 & 367
Result: India won by 6 runs

Awards

  • Player of the Match: Mohammed Siraj

  • Player of the Series (India): Shubman Gill

  • Player of the Series (England): Harry Brook

Series Ends 2-2; India Retain Trophy

With this result, the Anthony de Mello Trophy remains with India. The five-Test series, full of intense battles and individual brilliance, concluded in fitting fashion with one of the closest Test wins in recent memory.