On August 4, 2025, India achieved a thrilling six-run victory over England in the fifth Test at The Oval, resulting in a drawn series at 2-2. Mohammed Siraj delivered an incredible performance, taking five wickets and dismantling England’s batting lineup, which collapsed to 367 while chasing a target of 374.
The match, regarded as one of the closest in Test history, concluded with Siraj’s decisive yorker dismissing Gus Atkinson, securing India’s narrowest-ever Test win.
England began their innings at 339-6, needing just 35 runs to win. However, Siraj quickly dismissed Jamie Smith, Jamie Overton, and Atkinson, while Prasidh Krishna took out Josh Tongue for a duck. Chris Woakes, despite having a dislocated shoulder and wearing a sling, managed to run between the wickets without facing a ball.
A thrilling end to a captivating series 🙌#TeamIndia win the 5th and Final Test by 6 runs
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/Tc2xpWNayE
#ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/9ybTxGd61A
— BCCI (@BCCI) August 4, 2025
England’s collapse was dramatic, losing seven wickets for just 66 runs, which was ignited by Harry Brook’s reckless dismissal after scoring a century, followed by the exits of Jacob Bethell and Joe Root, who made 105. Although Atkinson hit a six that gave a glimmer of hope, Siraj’s exceptional performance ultimately secured the victory.
India captain Shubman Gill said, “With 70-odd runs to win with seven wickets, you don’t see many games like this. A little bit of luck for us.” England coach Brendon McCullum called it “one of the all-time best Test matches,” acknowledging Siraj’s passion and India’s deserved victory despite England’s missed chances, including dropped catches.
For his relentless bowling display and scalping nine wickets, Mohd. Siraj bags the Player of the Match award in the 5th Test 👏👏
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/Tc2xpWNayE#TeamIndia | #ENGvIND | @mdsirajofficial pic.twitter.com/GyUl6dZWWp
— BCCI (@BCCI) August 4, 2025
The packed Oval witnessed a fluctuating seven-week series culminate in a thrilling finish under grey skies. Siraj, named player of the match, redeemed an earlier dropped catch of Brook, proving pivotal. The match underscored India’s resilience and England’s aggressive “Bazball” approach, making it a historic Test.
India’s victory highlights the competitive intensity of Test cricket and Siraj’s emergence as a match-winner. The 2-2 series draw keeps both teams poised for future battles. For accurate cricket updates, rely on trusted sources to avoid misinformation.