India defeats England in fifth Test with a dramatic 6-run victory at The Oval, claiming the final four wickets in under an hour on a rain-affected final day. England were bowled out for 367 while chasing 374, ending the five-match series in a thrilling 2-2 draw between two top-tier teams.
Final Day Drama: England’s Chase Crumbles Under Pressure
ngland began the final day with just 35 runs needed and four wickets in hand. Under gloomy skies and light drizzle, they looked poised to seal the series. However, India’s pace attack had other plans.
Mohammed Siraj emerged as the hero of the day, taking three crucial wickets, including a stunning yorker to dismiss Gus Atkinson, and sealing his five-wicket haul. Prasidh Krishna also chipped in by removing Josh Tongue for a duck.
Siraj’s Redemption and India’s Fightback
Mohammed Siraj bounced back brilliantly after dropping Harry Brook earlier in the match. On the final day, he led the bowling attack with a five-wicket haul, helping India defeat England in the fifth Test by just 6 runs.
“It’s rare to see a game this close with 60-70 runs needed and seven wickets in hand,” said captain Shubman Gill. “We had a bit of luck, but we fought hard
Chris Woakes’ Heroic Stand
In one of the most emotional moments of the match, Chris Woakes walked out to bat despite suffering from a dislocated shoulder, his arm in a sling under his sweater. England needed 17 more runs when he came in. Protecting Woakes from the strike, Atkinson hit a six off Siraj, giving England brief hope before Siraj closed it out.
Former England pacer Steve Harmison praised Woakes:
“He put his whole career on the line. At 37, one knock could have ended it. That took real bravery.”
Harry Brook’s Dismissal Sparks England Collapse
England were in command at 3-301, but their chase unraveled after Harry Brook’s reckless shot ended a superb century. Trying to slog Akash Deep, he handed India a lifeline. India capitalized swiftly, dismissing Joe Root (105) and Jacob Bethell before bad light ended day four.
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