India Clinch Dramatic 6-Run Win Over England at The Oval, Level Series 2–2 in Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy

London, August 4, 2025 – In a heart-stopping finale to one of the most closely contested series in recent memory, India defeated England by just 6 runs in the fifth and final Test at The Oval. With this result, the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy ended in a 2–2 draw. The match will be remembered for its stunning swings in momentum, a fierce final-day collapse, and Mohammed Siraj’s heroic five-wicket haul.

Match Summary

India posted scores of 224 in the first innings and a robust 396 in the second innings, powered by a brilliant century from Yashasvi Jaiswal. Despite trailing by 23 runs in the first innings, the visitors came back strongly with both bat and ball.

England set out to chase a daunting target of 374 runs on a pitch that was beginning to show signs of wear. They seemed comfortably placed at 301/3 midway through Day 4 and into Day 5, but a shocking lower-order collapse saw them fall short, bowled out for 367. They lost their last seven wickets for just 66 runs, handing India one of their narrowest-ever wins in Test cricket history.

Siraj’s Match-Winning Spell

Fast bowler Mohammed Siraj produced one of the finest spells of his career when India needed it the most. On the final morning, with England needing just over 70 runs and holding four wickets in hand, Siraj ripped through the tail. He picked up 5 for 104 in the second innings, with a particularly fiery burst of 3 wickets for 9 runs during a tense morning session.

His toe-crushing yorker to dismiss Gus Atkinson sealed the match for India, sparking wild celebrations on the field and in the commentary box. Siraj ended with 9 wickets in the match and a series-high 23 wickets, earning him both Player of the Match and Player of the Series honors.

Other Key Performers

• Yashasvi Jaiswal played a pivotal role with the bat, scoring a superb second-innings century that helped India recover from early setbacks and post a competitive total.

• Prasidh Krishna was equally effective with the ball, especially in the second innings, where he took 4 wickets, including the key dismissal of Josh Tongue.

• KL Rahul and Shubman Gill contributed consistently throughout the series and were instrumental in India’s recovery efforts after being 1–2 down.

Iconic Moments from the Match

One of the most emotionally charged moments came when Chris Woakes, despite a dislocated shoulder, returned to the crease with his arm in a sling as England’s last man. Although he did not face a ball, his determination earned him a standing ovation.

Another unforgettable moment was in the commentary box, where Sunil Gavaskar, a former India captain and legend, stood up and applauded with tears in his eyes as Siraj’s final delivery won India the Test. The emotion was shared by millions watching around the world.

Historical Significance

• This six-run win is India’s narrowest-ever Test victory by runs.

• The match is being hailed as one of the greatest modern-day Test finishes.

• Siraj’s 23 wickets made him the highest wicket-taker of the series.

• Shubman Gill ended as the leading run-scorer of the series, consolidating his place as India’s new Test captain and batting mainstay.

Series Recap and Context

The five-match series had seen fluctuating fortunes for both teams. England won the first and third Tests, while India bounced back in the second and fifth. The fourth Test had ended in a draw due to rain interruptions.

This series was historic not only for the quality of cricket but also as it marked the final Test series in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy era, paying tribute to two greats of the game: James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar.

Reactions from Both Camps

India’s stand-in captain Shubman Gill called the win “a result of belief, fight, and a bit of luck,” highlighting the never-give-up spirit of the team. He praised Siraj’s discipline and intensity under pressure.

KL Rahul said the victory would “rank right at the top” of India’s overseas Test wins and praised the team’s ability to bounce back despite losing early momentum in the series.

On the other side, Brendon McCullum, England’s head coach, said the match was “one of the greatest Test matches” he had witnessed and praised both teams for the spirit and quality of cricket on display.

Final Scorecard Snapshot – 5th Test, The Oval

• India 1st Innings: 224

• England 1st Innings: 247

• India 2nd Innings: 396

• England 2nd Innings: 367

• Result: India won by 6 runs

• Series Result: Drawn 2–2