India creates history at The Oval, pulling off a heroic 6-run win against England from an impossible situation to level the Test series 2-2.
Updated: August 4, 2025 4:50 PM IST
New Delhi: As soon as Mohammed Siraj dismissed Gus Atkinson, the entire ground erupted in joy. Indian players rushed to Siraj, and Dhruv Jurel was the first to reach and hug him. Teammates came running from all directions — it was a celebration of a historic victory. Captain Shubman Gill also saluted the courage of opposition player Chris Woakes, who batted with one hand despite an injured shoulder and remained on the field. Woakes’ one hand tucked inside his sweater and the bat in the other — this scene will be remembered forever in cricket history.
India took a full victory lap at the Oval, and Siraj soaked in every moment with the ball in hand amid loud cheers and slogans from the crowd. On the very first ball of the 85th over — after more than 1000 deliveries in the series — he delivered a sensational yorker that crashed into the stumps. Atkinson tried to play it towards square but couldn’t even connect. Siraj raised both arms and looked to the sky. This victory became a story of India’s passion, spirit, and a remarkable comeback.
The series ended in a 2-2 draw, but the story of this Test match will be remembered for years.
Struggle of Indian Batters in the First Innings
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, India managed 224 runs in their first innings. The start was poor, with Yashasvi Jaiswal (2) and KL Rahul (14) falling cheaply. Karun Nair top-scored with 57, while Sai Sudharsan added 38 and Ravindra Jadeja 31. For England, Gus Atkinson wreaked havoc with 5 wickets, and Josh Tongue chipped in with 3.
England’s First Innings – Siraj and Prasidh Shine
In response, England were all out for 247. Zak Crawley scored 64 and Harry Brook 53, but Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna each took 4 wickets to ensure England didn’t take a big lead.
India’s Comeback in the Second Innings
Yashasvi Jaiswal led the way with a superb 118 in the second innings. Shubman Gill scored a captain’s knock of 119, while Karun Nair (73) and Washington Sundar (53) provided vital support. This time, England’s bowlers struggled to make an impact as India posted 396.
England’s Second Innings – Another Collapse
Chasing 403, England started well. Joe Root (105) and Harry Brook (111) batted brilliantly, but Root’s dismissal triggered a collapse. Gus Atkinson was the last man out, and England were bowled out for 367.
Outstanding Performance by Indian Bowlers
Mohammed Siraj took 5 wickets in the second innings and 9 in the match. Prasidh Krishna bagged 4 wickets and Akash Deep took 1. With this excellent bowling display, India clinched a memorable win by 6 runs, adding a thrilling chapter to Test cricket history.