A Final Day That Had It All
Test cricket is known for its unpredictability, and Day 5 at The Oval lived up to that reputation in every sense. England started the morning needing just 35 runs with four wickets in hand, chasing 374.
It looked like a matter of when, not if. But India had other plans.
In a stunning turnaround, India bowled England out for 367 in under an hour, sealing a dramatic 6‑run win. It’s now their narrowest ever Test victory by runs — and it couldn’t have come at a more crucial moment, as the series ended 2‑2.
Siraj Rises Under Pressure
Mohammed Siraj was the standout. In a high-pressure situation, with the game slipping away, he delivered the kind of spell that defines careers. His figures — 5 for 104 — tell a story, but it’s that short burst on the final morning that made the difference.
Three wickets for nine runs, including a perfect yorker to bowl Gus Atkinson — it was a reminder of what Siraj is capable of when he’s locked in. On a day where every ball mattered, he didn’t just hold his nerve — he attacked.
Woakes Shows What Grit Looks Like
Not every heroic act comes with runs or wickets. Chris Woakes, batting with a dislocated shoulder and a sling on his arm, may not have faced a delivery, but his decision to walk out at No. 11 spoke volumes.
With England needing 17 more runs, his presence was a last-ditch effort, built on heart more than hope. It didn’t change the result, but moments like that show what Test cricket is truly about — commitment beyond the scoreboard.
Leadership in Contrast
After the match, both captains handled the result with dignity. Shubman Gill, leading India through a tense final day, praised Siraj’s intensity and self-belief:
“I believed he could do it from the moment he woke up.”
Ben Stokes, though clearly disappointed, acknowledged the effort from his side and highlighted Woakes’ courage as something that would stay with them:
“We gave everything. Woakes showed outstanding heart.”
It was a contest that tested leadership, and both men stood up to the moment in their own ways.
What Makes This Win Special
There’s no shortage of memorable victories in Indian Test history, but this one stands out — not just because of the margin, but because of how it was earned.
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The bowlers didn’t just defend a total; they reversed the momentum on a pitch that still had plenty in it for the batters.
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Siraj stepped up when India needed someone to take charge.
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England, despite falling short, played their part in a gripping finish that showcased the emotional range of the format.
This was more than just a win. It was a statement about resilience, belief, and the fine margins that define the longest format.
Final Thought
The 2025 series between India and England ends level — but this final Test will likely be remembered as its defining moment. Not because it handed someone a trophy, but because it reminded everyone why Test cricket, even in today’s era, remains unmatched for tension, emotion, and drama.
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