Introduction: A Test Match That Will Go Down in History
In a sensational finish at The Oval, India defeated England by just 6 runs in the 5th and final Test of the 2025 series. This nail-biting victory helped India level the five-match series 2–2, bringing down the curtain on one of the most dramatic red-ball series in modern cricket.
Table of Contents
Match Summary: IND vs ENG 5th Test, Oval (July 31–August 4, 2025)
| Venue | Kennington Oval, London |
|---|---|
| Winner | India by 6 Runs |
| Series Result | Drawn 2–2 |
| Player of the Match | Mohammed Siraj |
| Closest Margin | India’s narrowest Test win ever |
Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1–2: India Sets Up the Battle
India posted a challenging total of 374 runs, thanks to half-centuries from Shubman Gill (67), Rishabh Pant (56), and Ravindra Jadeja (61). England replied with 328, with Joe Root and Harry Brook laying the foundation of their fightback.
Day 3–4: England Take Control
After trailing by 46 runs, India managed 329 in their second innings, setting a target of 374 for England. With Root and Brook scoring centuries and stitching together a 195-run stand, England ended Day 4 at 339/6, needing just 35 runs on the final day.
Day 5: Rain, Drama, and a Historic Collapse
Rain delayed the start. When play resumed, India’s bowlers came alive:
- Mohammed Siraj struck early, removing both overnight batsmen.
- Prasidh Krishna dismissed the dangerous Ollie Robinson.
- Chris Woakes, batting with a fractured arm and in a sling, walked out as England’s last hope.
In a heart-pounding finish, Siraj bowled Gus Atkinson, ending the innings at 367 all out, giving India a 6-run victory.
Top Performers of the Match
India
Mohammed Siraj – 5 Wickets in Second Innings
Siraj delivered the spell of his life, dismantling England’s lower order under intense pressure.
Shubman Gill – Consistent Leader
Gill’s calm captaincy and valuable runs in both innings made a massive difference.
Ravindra Jadeja – All-round Excellence
Another classy fifty with the bat and tight spells with the ball proved crucial.
England
Joe Root – Century Under Pressure
Root showed his elite class with a brilliant 105 that almost took England over the line.
Harry Brook – Powerhouse Hundred
Brook’s 111 was bold, aggressive, and nearly match-winning.
Chris Woakes – Courage of a Warrior
Batting one-handed in a sling, Woakes won hearts around the world despite defeat.
Analysis: How India Pulled Off the Impossible
Mental Toughness & Patience
India’s bowlers trusted their process. Even as Root-Brook batted them out of the game on Day 4, they kept probing, eventually forcing mistakes.
Tactical Brilliance
Siraj was brought in short bursts. Field placements were aggressive, designed to pressure the tail. India never played for a draw.
Woakes’ Heroic Walkout
One of the most iconic moments in modern Test cricket — Chris Woakes walking out injured and facing a live delivery with a dangling arm — will be remembered forever.
Series Overview: IND vs ENG 2025
| Test | Venue | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Test | Edgbaston | England won |
| 2nd Test | Lord’s | India won |
| 3rd Test | Headingley | England won |
| 4th Test | Old Trafford | Draw |
| 5th Test | The Oval | India won by 6 runs |
Final Series Result: Drawn 2–2
Final Verdict: A Classic That Will Be Rewatched for Generations
This wasn’t just a Test match — it was a battle of belief, willpower, and sheer courage. From Gill’s fearless leadership to Siraj’s fire and Woakes’ one-handed bravery, this match had it all.
Whether you’re an Indian fan celebrating, or an English supporter feeling the heartbreak — one thing is certain:
Test cricket is alive, kicking, and spectacular.
FAQs:
Q1. Who won the 5th Test at The Oval in 2025?
India won the match by just 6 runs, clinching a memorable victory to draw the series 2–2
Q2. What was the final series result?
The Test series ended level at 2–2, with both India and England winning two matches each and one match finishing in a draw
Q3. What was the situation at the start of Day 5?
England resumed Day 5 needing just 35 runs to win with four wickets in hand at 339/6.
Q4. Was rain a factor on Day 4 or Day 5?
Rain and bad light forced an early end to Day 4, but Day 5 was dry, allowing uninterrupted play. India capitalized on the clear conditions with disciplined bowling.
Q5. Who were the standout players of the match?
Mohammed Siraj starred with a sensational five-wicket haul and was named Player of the Match.
Joe Root (105) and Harry Brook (111) impressed with brilliant centuries.
Q7. Did Chris Woakes bat despite his injury?
Yes, Chris Woakes came out to bat with his arm in a sling, showing true grit.
Q9. What were the final innings scores of both teams?
India 1st Innings: 224
England 1st Innings: 247
India 2nd Innings: 396
England 2nd Innings: 367 (All Out)
India won by 6 runs.