In a heart-stopping finish on the final day of the fifth Test, India scripted a spirited comeback to defeat England by just 6 runs and square the 5-match series 2-2. The match, played at The Oval, will be remembered as one of the most dramatic finishes in recent Test history.
England resumed Day 5 at 339/6, needing only 35 more runs to clinch the series. With the home crowd backing them and wickets in hand, the odds seemed tilted in England’s favor. But Mohammed Siraj had other plans.
The fast bowler struck early, removing Jamie Smith to deliver a critical breakthrough. In a fiery next over, Siraj trapped the same batter lbw, shifting the momentum firmly towards India.
Then came Prasidh Krishna, who rose to the occasion by cleaning up Josh Tongue for a duck, putting India just one wicket away from a sensational win.
As tension gripped The Oval, a wounded Chris Woakes walked out to bat with his right hand heavily strapped, forced to take guard as a left-hander. But the drama didn't last long.
Siraj sealed the deal with a blistering yorker that dismantled Gus Atkinson's stumps, sparking scenes of jubilation in the Indian camp.
This dramatic victory not only gave India a memorable win but also helped them level the series 2-2, underlining their fighting spirit and depth in bowling.
