Siraj’s Five Wicket Spell Seals India’s Epic 6 Run Win, Levels Series 2 2
As England resumed Day 5 at 339 for 6, needing just 35 more runs, Siraj—and his partner Prasidh Krishna—bowled with precision and grit. Siraj accounted for three of the last four wickets, dismissing Jamie Smith, Jamie Overton, and finally Gus Atkinson with a yorker to clinch victory.
His figures of 5 for 104, backed by Krishna’s 4/126, sealed India’s narrowest-ever Test win by runs and set the stage for a euphoric finish. The final wicket sparked jubilant celebrations as teammates poured onto the field in an emotional victory parade at the packed Oval.
Siraj’s journey in the match was one of redemption. After a costly dropped catch earlier in the game—when he erased a chance to dismiss Harry Brook at 19—Siraj came back with fire to deliver under pressure. He later shared how he had drawn on inner belief, saying that he “downloaded a picture from Google saying ‘believe’” to stay focused.
During a post-match interview, Siraj revealed, “I didn’t think I would take the (Brook) catch and step on the rope. It was a match-changing moment… I always believed I would do it for the team.” His honesty and humility further endeared him to fans and teammates alike.
England’s valiant last stand included a courageous cameo from Chris Woakes, who appeared at the crease with a dislocated shoulder, batting left-handed in a bid to guide England home. Despite the dramatic cameo, England fell agonizingly short, bowled out for 367, just six runs shy of the target.
Earlier on Day 4, England’s middle order—including centuries by Harry Brook (111) and Joe Root (105)—had built a commanding position. But a sudden collapse of seven wickets for 66 runs ended that momentum, handing India a lifeline heading into the final day.
Krishna also played a pivotal role, chipping in with four wickets and supporting Siraj's fiery burst during the final session. Together, they turned the tide in India’s favor with a devastating seam attack.
The win was hailed as one of the greatest Test finishes in modern times. England coach Brendon McCullum described it as “one of the all-time best Test matches” and praised Siraj and India’s “passion”—while acknowledging England had their chances but dropped crucial catches and let momentum slip away.
India captain Shubman Gill applauded his team’s resolve in the face of overwhelming odds and specifically praised Woakes’ bravery. He congratulated Siraj for his spirited effort and acknowledged that a little luck had swung the game in India's favor. He added that the team’s belief and unity had ultimately won them the day.
Thus, India pulled off a remarkable comeback, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat, and drew the series 2–2 in a fitting end to one of the most enthralling Test contests in recent memory.