India Clinch Nail-Biting Win at The Oval to Draw Test Series 2-2. In one of the most dramatic finishes in recent Test cricket history, India defeated England by six runs on Day 5 of the fifth and final Test at The Oval on August 4, 2024. This narrowest-ever Test win by India helped the visitors draw the series 2-2 and share the prestigious Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
Shubman Gill, leading the side in the absence of Rohit Sharma, marshalled his resources brilliantly on the final day. Mohammed Siraj emerged as the hero with a sensational five-wicket haul, including three crucial scalps on Day 5, to dismantle England&rsquo;s batting lineup.
England, chasing 374 for victory, were bowled out for 367 despite a gritty fight from the middle and lower order. Chris Woakes, who came out to bat with a dislocated shoulder, tried to pull off a miracle alongside the tailenders, but India&rsquo;s bowlers held their nerve.
Siraj, who had dropped a sitter of Harry Brook on Day 4&mdash;a mistake that allowed Brook to score a century&mdash;redeemed himself in spectacular fashion. His fiery spell on the final morning rattled England, and his ability to hit the right lengths under pressure turned the tide in India&rsquo;s favour.
Adding to India&rsquo;s bowling brilliance, Prasidh Krishna took four wickets, two of which came late on Day 4, sparking a comeback when England seemed in control at 296/5.
England started Day 5 needing 78 runs with four wickets in hand. Joe Root and the lower order looked composed early on, but Siraj&rsquo;s double strike in quick succession brought India back into the contest. Jasprit Bumrah, though wicketless on the final day, maintained pressure from the other end, not allowing easy singles.
The dismissal of Root for 91 proved decisive. From there, England lost three wickets for just 12 runs. The crowd at The Oval witnessed an edge-of-the-seat climax, with Woakes fighting valiantly, but ultimately India emerged victorious.
Shubman Gill&rsquo;s calm and composed leadership was lauded by pundits. His field placements, timely bowling changes, and encouragement to young bowlers played a key role in securing the win.
With this result, India not only avoided a series loss but also proved their resilience in overseas conditions once again. The 2-2 draw ensured that both teams shared the honours in what has been a fiercely fought series marked by fluctuating momentum.
This win adds significant confidence to India&rsquo;s red-ball setup as they build toward the next World Test Championship cycle. For England, despite individual brilliance from Brook and Root, it was a case of missed opportunities and inability to finish off crucial moments.
The cricketing world hailed the Test as one of the best in recent years, showcasing the enduring charm and unpredictability of the longest format.

India Seal Historic Win at The Oval, Level Series 2-2

Gill-led India edge England by six runs in thrilling Oval Test to draw the Anderson Trophy

India Seal Historic Win at The Oval, Level Series

Gill-led India edge England by six runs in thrilling Oval Test to draw the Anderson Trophy

August 5, 2025 | 17:14 IST