ENG vs IND: 5th Test, Day 5 Review – India roars back to tie the Anderson-Tendulkar series

India clinched a stunning, edge-of-the-seat six-run victory over England in the fifth Test of the five-match series at the Kennington Oval. As a result, the Shubman Gill-led unit managed to retain the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy by levelling the series 2-2.

The first couple of balls of the day went for boundaries, as the target was brought down to 27 from 35. Mohammed Siraj struck twice in consecutive overs to get rid of Jamie Smith (2 off 20) and Jamie Overton (9 off 17). Prasidh Krishna, who was not landing the ball in the right places, dismissed Josh Tongue (0 off 12).

Chris Woakes put up a brave front and came out to bat with him as the last man standing, along with Gus Atkinson. When Siraj was smacked for a six over cow-corner, it seemed as if anything could unfold. However, Siraj kept his cool to land a perfect yorker which clattered the off stump to take the last wicket.

Atkinson’s (17 off 29) wicket was followed by jubilant celebrations from the Indian setup on the field. Woakes received a lot of handshakes after the touring team was done celebrating. Atkinson’s wicket was Siraj’s 23rd of the series. He ended up as the leading wicket-taker of the series.

Best Performers:

Harry Brook (53 off 64 and 111 off 98)

Brook’s assertive gameplay in both innings of the match was successful in shifting the momentum into his team’s favour. Both of Brook’s innings contributed heavily to his team’s cause.

Mohammed Siraj (4/86 and 5/104)

Siraj led the bowling attack with a whole lot of passion and responsibility in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah. He ended up securing his best figures (9/190) in a Test match.

What’s next for both teams?

England will next feature in a white-ball series against South Africa (three ODIs, three T20Is) in September. India will play in the Asia Cup in the same month mentioned above.