India edges a victory, Trophy to be shared as series end in draw

Kennington – India edged England by a mere six runs at The Oval on Monday to level the five‑Test series 2‑2 and retain a share of the inaugural Anderson‑Tendulkar Trophy, after one of the most extraordinary finales in Test history. 

England began Day 5 requiring just 35 runs to clinch a 3‑1 series victory, boosted by mammoth centuries from Harry Brook and Joe Root. However, in just 53 deliveries, India triggered a stunning collapse. Mohammed Siraj took three wickets on the morning session, eventually finishing with a five‑wicket haul, while Prasidh Krishna captured the other two, sealing India’s smallest-ever Test win by runs. The drama peaked when Chris Woakes, carrying a dislocated shoulder, walked out to bat with his arm in a sling—earning a standing ovation—though he did not face a delivery as Gus Atkinson shielded him through strike rotation.

Captain Shubman Gill hailed Siraj’s composure and the fast‑bowling unit for their resilience. Despite officially sharing the trophy, commentators and former captains lauded India’s grit. Business leader Anand Mahindra tweeted: “The spirit says India WON this one”. The drawn outcome not only preserved pride but also delivered vital points in the ICC World Test Championship standings

With so many twists, tactical nuances and individual bravery under pressure, India transformed tension into triumph over the final ten days. The iconic final stanza appropriately preserved shared glory for both sides.