In one of the most thrilling finishes in recent Test history, Mohammed Siraj produced a sensational spell of swing bowling on a damp and overcast morning at The Oval, guiding India to a dramatic six-run victory over England and levelling the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series 2-2. England, chasing a modest target, began Day 5 needing just 35 runs with four wickets in hand, but Siraj’s spellbound fifer turned the game on its head.
The match had been tilted in England’s favour, thanks to centuries from Harry Brook and Joe Root, who shared a mammoth 195-run stand on Day 4. However, a brief spell of rain after Tea forced the match into the final day. Under gloomy skies and light drizzle, the ball began to move prodigiously, and Siraj capitalized in dramatic fashion.
He first dismissed Jamie Smith early, who edged behind after being beaten twice. Moments later, Jamie Overton was trapped LBW by a sharp nip-backer. Though he reviewed the decision, the ‘umpire’s call’ upheld the dismissal. A lucky escape followed for Gus Atkinson, whose edge fell just short of KL Rahul. Siraj’s relentless line, however, built pressure that soon paid dividends.
While Josh Tongue momentarily escaped an LBW verdict thanks to DRS, Prasidh Krishna cleaned him up soon after with a stunning yorker, reducing England to their last pair. A valiant Chris Woakes, batting one-handed with a dislocated right shoulder, walked out amidst loud applause, hoping for a miracle.
Atkinson bravely shielded Woakes, managing boundaries and even a six off a misfield by Akash Deep. But with 17 more needed, Siraj returned for one final spell. He delivered a perfect yorker, castling Atkinson for 17 and sealing an incredible comeback victory for India in front of a near-packed Oval.
Siraj finished with 5 wickets, his swing and resilience earning him both accolades and a match to remember. India’s victory not only levelled the series 2-2 but also underscored the grit and fighting spirit of a team that never gave up despite the odds. This Oval Test will long be remembered for its drama, intensity, and Siraj’s remarkable triumph under pressure.
