Pacers lead charge as India seal thriller at The Oval

Tuesday, 5 August 2025 02:45 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Man of the Match Mohammed Siraj celebrates his five wickets in England’s second innings

A short but action-packed Day 5 at The Oval saw India claim the final four wickets, sealing a dramatic win to draw the series 2-2.

Both teams entered Day 5 with victory firmly in sight – England needed just 35 runs, while India required 4 wickets. Jamie Overton looked to shift momentum early, smashing two quick boundaries to pile the pressure on India. However, Mohammed Siraj struck back in style, removing Jamie Smith to give India a much-needed breakthrough.

Siraj then set up Jamie Overton brilliantly, trapping him lbw and swinging the momentum firmly in India’s favour. Prasidh Krishna soon joined the action, delivering a searing yorker that rattled the stumps to dismiss Josh Tongue, bringing India within touching distance of a famous win.

Chris Woakes heroically walked out to bat despite battling a shoulder injury, keeping England’s hopes alive. Atkinson smashed a six against the run of play, cutting the target down to just 11 runs. Finally, Mohammed Siraj rattled the off stump of Gus Atkinson, handing India a memorable victory by the barest of margins – just 6 runs – and levelling the series 2-2 in thrilling fashion.