In a nail-biting finale at The Oval on August 4, 2025, Team India secured a historic and dramatic six-run win against England in the fifth and final Test match of the series. This victory not only leveled the series at 2-2 but also marked one of the closest and most thrilling finishes in Test cricket history. Bollywood luminaries Anil Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Arjun Kapoor were among the celebrants who lauded Team India’s courage, skill, and never-say-die spirit.
Key Highlights of the Epic Test Match
India defeated England by six runs, their narrowest margin of victory in Test cricket.
Mohammed Siraj was the star bowler for India, taking nine wickets in the match with a fiery spell on the final day.
Prasidh Krishna supported the bowling attack strongly, taking four crucial wickets to help bowl England out for 367 in pursuit of 374 runs.
England were in a strong position at 301 for 3 and appeared poised to win, but collapsed spectacularly, losing their last seven wickets for just 66 runs.
Standout performances included centuries from England’s Joe Root (105) and Harry Brook (111), with Brook’s century coming off 98 balls.
The match saw dramatic moments such as Chris Woakes batting with a dislocated shoulder in a determined valiant effort.
India’s chase was powered by a brilliant hundred from Yashasvi Jaiswal who scored 118, setting a competitive target that tested England’s batting to its limit.
Match Overview and Heroics
The Test began with England’s Ollie Pope winning the toss and electing to bowl first. India’s first innings total was 224, after which England scored 247. In the second innings, India posted a strong 396, thanks largely to Jaiswal’s century, setting a target of 374 for England to chase. On the final day, England’s chase began confidently with Joe Root and Harry Brook’s impressive partnership, pushing the team close to victory.
However, the Indian bowling attack, led by Mohammed Siraj’s relentless accuracy and lethal yorkers, quickly turned the tide. Despite a fielding blunder by Siraj the previous day that allowed Harry Brook a lifeline, he redeemed himself by claiming the crucial final wickets, including that of Gus Atkinson with a remarkable yorker that sealed the victory. The last few moments were tense as England required 17 runs with only two wickets remaining and one batsman nursing an injury.
Bollywood’s Heartfelt Celebration of Team India
Following the dramatic win, Bollywood stars expressed their joy and admiration for the team’s resilience and fighting spirit. Veterans like Anil Kapoor celebrated the unity and strength demonstrated by the squad. Kareena Kapoor Khan praised the team’s mental toughness and strategic brilliance, while Arjun Kapoor highlighted the importance of teamwork in such high-pressure moments. Their social media messages and public appearances further galvanized fans across the country, igniting celebrations and national pride.
Significance of the Win
This win was crucial as it leveled the five-match series at 2-2, allowing India to retain the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
The Test match is widely regarded as one of India's finest batting and bowling displays, symbolizing mental and physical endurance.
India’s ability to claw back from difficult positions showcased the team’s evolving strength and depth, especially among young players like Mohammed Siraj and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
The match reinforced India as a formidable Test side on foreign soil, capable of defending slender leads under pressure.
Series Summary and Final Reflections
The 2025 India-England Test series stretched over several weeks, with all five matches played out to the full five days. England initially led the series but India responded strongly with thrilling wins and competitive performances. Key moments included India’s 336-run victory in the second Test and a remarkable fifth-day fightback in the fourth Test. The final Test encapsulated the fierce competitiveness and spirit of both teams, with every session delivering high drama and skill.
This epic battle at The Oval will be remembered for years as a classic example of Test cricket at its finest, blending explosive batting, relentless bowling, brilliant fielding, and extraordinary displays of courage and teamwork. The victory not only delighted Indian fans and cricket lovers worldwide but also brought together the worlds of sports and entertainment, with beloved film stars celebrating the nation’s cricketing heroes.
Sources: Al Jazeera, Indian Express, NDTV Sports
