Mohammed Siraj shines as India edge England in 5th Test to draw series

India edged out England by six runs in a thrilling fifth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval on Monday, leveling the five-match series 2-2.

Fast bowler Mohammed Siraj was instrumental in India’s victory, claiming a five-wicket haul (5-104) as the visitors defended a target of 373. England, who resumed the final day at 339-6, were bowled out for 367 in overcast conditions after losing their last four wickets for 28 runs.

Siraj made early inroads on the last day, dismissing wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith without scoring. He then trapped Jamie Overton lbw for nine in his next over.

Despite a valiant effort by Gus Atkinson, who struck a six to bring the hosts close, England fell short. Chris Woakes, battling a shoulder injury, came in as the last man with England needing 17 more runs. Atkinson managed to reduce the margin to seven before Siraj bowled him for 17, sealing India's narrowest Test victory.

India were without Jasprit Bumrah for the match, sticking to their plan of fielding him in only three games during the series. Siraj, the only Indian pacer to play all five Tests, ended the series as the highest wicket-taker with 23 wickets at an average of 32.43.

For England, Harry Brook was the top scorer with an aggressive 111 off 98 balls, hitting two sixes and 14 boundaries. Prasidh Krishna also played a crucial role for India, taking four wickets in the innings.