In one of the most nerve-wracking finales in recent Test history, India edged past England by six runs in the final Test at The Oval, sealing the series
in spectacular fashion. After centuries from Joe Root and Harry Brook had pushed England to the brink of a historic chase, it was India's pacers who turned the tide on Day 5 with a clinical burst of bowling under pressure.
Starting the final morning, England needed just 35 runs with four wickets in hand. Prasidh Krishna leaked two boundaries off his first two balls, briefly unsettling Indian hopes. But Mohammed Siraj, with his unrelenting intensity, struck a game-changing blow by removing Jamie Smith with a ball that seamed late, and nearly dismissed Gus Atkinson the very next ball.
Siraj then trapped Jamie Overton LBW in his next over, with the ball just brushing leg stump-an umpire's call upheld on review.
Prasidh returned to test Josh Tongue, almost dismissing him LBW, but a review kept Tongue alive temporarily. A couple of overs later, however, he cleaned up Tongue with a searing delivery, leaving England nine down.
With 11 still required, England's last hope rested on Chris Woakes, who stunned many by walking out to bat left-handed, nursing a shoulder injury. Atkinson attempted to shield him, even striking Siraj for a six. But the resistance didn't last. Siraj breached Atkinson's defense to complete a memorable five-wicket haul and hand India the win.
Amid wild celebrations, former India coach Gary Kirsten heaped praise on current coach Gautam Gambhir and the young side led by Shubman Gill.
"I am happy for the Indian cricket team (for their stellar show in England) and I am pleased for Gautam Gambhir as well. I know him well and happy to see what they've achieved as a team in England," said Kirsten, who coached India to the 2011 World Cup title.
With this victory, India not only sealed the series but also sent out a strong message about their resilience, depth, and the promising leadership of the new coaching group.
