LONDON (SNP Report): England fell just seven runs short of a record chase as India pulled off a thrilling six-run victory in the final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval on Monday, levelling the five-match series 2-2.
Chasing a daunting target of 373, England were bowled out for 367, with Mohammed Siraj emerging as the hero for India, claiming a memorable five-wicket haul (5-104) in high-pressure final-day conditions. The result marked India’s narrowest-ever win in Test cricket history.
England began the day on 339-6, needing just 34 runs with four wickets in hand. But Siraj broke through early, dismissing wicketkeeper Jamie Smith without adding to his overnight score. He struck again in his next over to trap Jamie Overton lbw for 9, swinging the match in India’s favour.
The climax arrived with England requiring just 17 runs, and a wounded Chris Woakes came out to bat with his arm strapped due to a shoulder injury. Gus Atkinson, who had impressed with the ball earlier in the match, briefly revived hopes with a six off Siraj. But with the target down to just seven runs, Siraj delivered a searing delivery to bowl Atkinson (17), sparking wild celebrations among Indian players and fans at The Oval.
With Jasprit Bumrah rested for the match, Siraj stood tall as India’s pace spearhead throughout the series and finished as the leading wicket-taker with 23 scalps at an average of 32.43. For England, Harry Brook was the standout performer with a brilliant 111 off 98 balls, studded with 14 fours and 2 sixes, injecting urgency into England’s chase. Prasidh Krishna provided valuable support for India, claiming 4 wickets, complementing Siraj’s fiery spell on a tense final day.
English