India Secures Historic 6-Run Victory to Draw Test Series 2-2 Against England
In a thrilling finish at The Oval, India produced one of the most memorable Test wins in recent history, defeating England by just six runs on Day 5 to level the five-match series 2-2. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar described the victory as “bigger than Gabba,” referring to India’s famous 2021 series win in Australia.
India’s Comeback Against England: A Match to Remember
India entered the final Test trailing 1-2 in the series. On Day 4, England seemed poised for victory thanks to commanding centuries from Joe Root and Harry Brook. However, inspired bowling spells from Prasidh Krishna and Akash Deep turned the tide, taking crucial wickets in the third session.
- England needed just 35 runs before rain halted Day 4 early.
- Day 5 saw India needing multiple wickets to clinch victory—and they delivered spectacularly.
Key Performances: Siraj and Krishna Star in India’s Bowling Attack
The bowling duo of Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna spearheaded India’s defense of a challenging target of 374 runs.
- Siraj took a five-wicket haul (5/104), including the final, match-winning wicket.
- Krishna supported with four wickets (4/126).
- Akash Deep also chipped in with key breakthroughs during crucial moments.
Match Highlights: From India’s Batting to the Final Over Drama
- India’s innings featured a century from Karun Nair, helping post a first innings total of 224.
- England replied with 247, with Zak Crawley and Harry Brook scoring fifties.
- In the second innings, a commanding century from Yashasvi Jaiswal pushed India to 396, setting England a target of 374.
- England fought back with centuries from Joe Root and Harry Brook, reaching 317/4 on Day 4.
- Late session heroics from Indian pacers ensured England lost momentum and wickets at regular intervals.
Nail-Biting Final Session: How India Sealed the Win
- England began Day 5 at 339/6.
- Early breakthroughs from Siraj reduced England to 347/7 and then 354/8.
- Despite a late six by Gus Atkinson, India held their nerve.
- Injured Chris Woakes struggled at the crease but was unable to steer England to victory.
- Siraj trapped the final batsman to secure a famous 6-run win.
Sunil Gavaskar’s Reaction: “Bigger Than Gabba”
Reflecting on the win, Sunil Gavaskar said,
“This win is bigger than Gabba.”
He emphasized the significance of the victory given the pressure and context, comparing it to India’s historic win at Brisbane in 2021.
What This Win Means for India
- India levels the series 2-2 against a strong England side.
- The victory showcases the emergence of new talents like Siraj, Krishna, and Akash Deep.
- Led by Shubman Gill, India signals a promising future in Test cricket.
- The match will be remembered as one of the finest examples of fighting spirit and tactical brilliance
India vs England 5th Test Final Scorecard
- England: 247 & 367/10
- India: 224 & 396
- Result: India won by 6 runs, series drawn 2-2
Also Read : India Clinch Historic Win by 6 Runs in Final Test Against England at The Oval