India took England’s last four wickets in under an hour to bowl them out for 367 and seal a breathtaking six-run victory in the final Test at The Oval on Monday, drawing the five-match series 2-2 and delivering one of the most gripping finishes in recent memory.
Fast bowler Mohammed Siraj was India’s hero, claiming 5-104 and tearing through England’s lower order with a ferocious morning spell of 3-9. Siraj removed Jamie Smith and Jamie Overton in quick succession before crashing Gus Atkinson’s off stump to end the match.
England had resumed on 339-6 needing 35 runs for victory, and when injured last man Chris Woakes walked out with his dislocated shoulder strapped and 17 runs still required, the Oval crowd braced for a grandstand finish. Atkinson briefly raised hopes by launching Siraj for six, but his attempt to shield Woakes was thwarted when Siraj produced another pinpoint yorker to secure India’s win.
For India batter KL Rahul, the victory was more than just a drawn series; it was a powerful statement about the enduring appeal of Test cricket.
“This win means absolutely everything,” Rahul said. “I’ve played in the Champions Trophy, seen the World Cup, but nothing compares to this. People keep asking if Test cricket will survive, but what we saw over these five games is the answer. We weren’t given a chance, but we fought in every game and to walk away 2-2, for Indian Test cricket, this will rank right at the top. This is where change begins.”
Rahul reserved special praise for stand-in captain Shubman Gill, who impressed many with his leadership during the series.
“Gill has been phenomenal, led from the front, tactically sharp, and built connections with the group. He’s going to be a fine Test captain,” Rahul said.
For Siraj, the match-winning performance was the reward for perseverance and unwavering belief. “My plan was simple – hit good areas and build pressure,” Siraj explained. “When I woke up today, I believed we could do it. I even downloaded a picture from Google that said ‘believe’.”
He also reflected on a dropped catch of Harry Brook earlier in the innings that nearly cost India the match. “That was a match-changing moment. But I always believe I can win a game from any point.”
The thrilling series, marked by twists and raw emotion, was a vivid reminder of why Test cricket continues to hold a unique place in the hearts of players and fans alike.
“This format tests your character more than anything else,” Rahul added. “Every session feels like a story within a story. This is why it’s special.”
As Siraj wheeled away in delight and India celebrated in front of a captivated Oval crowd, it was clear that this match had offered more than just a result; it had reaffirmed Test cricket’s timeless beauty, born from days of tension and resolve that erupt into unforgettable moments like these.