Mohammed Siraj emerged victorious as India clinched a thrilling six-run win over England, resulting in a drawn series at 2-2. The injured England player, Chris Woakes, who suffered a shoulder dislocation earlier in the match, bravely batted with a sling as England attempted to secure a win at the Oval.
India proceeded to the final Test in London after a hard-fought draw at Old Trafford to keep their series hopes alive. Facing an England team without the presence of Ben Stokes, who had made significant changes to their bowling lineup before the decisive match, the visitors were determined to give a tough fight.
Following a rain-interrupted Day 4, where Joe Root and Harry Brook showcased impressive centuries, England needed only 35 runs to complete a remarkable chase of 374 runs. However, with just four wickets remaining, including the injured Woakes, the task seemed daunting for the hosts.
The tension escalated as Jamie Overton began aggressively but was soon dismissed by Siraj, who took five crucial wickets in the final innings. Despite the availability of a new ball, India opted to continue with the existing one as the match reached a critical stage.
As the match came down to the wire, Woakes, despite facing a long recovery period ahead due to his injury, courageously took the field with his arm in a sling. The climax saw Siraj’s brilliant bowling leading to England falling short by just six runs, ending the series on a thrilling note.
In the end, Siraj’s delivery striking Woakes’ stumps secured India’s narrow Test victory, concluding an exhilarating series with a fitting finale.