In a heart-stopping finish to the fifth and final Test at The Oval, Mohammed Siraj delivered a sensational five-wicket haul to help India seal a six-run victory over England and draw the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2-2. The match looked almost out of India’s grasp as England needed only 35 runs with four wickets in hand. But Siraj’s fiery burst turned the game on its head, underlining his self-belief and rising stature in world cricket.
Siraj’s Morning Ritual Becomes Match-Winning Mantra
“I woke up in the morning and checked Google on my phone, and took out a ‘Believe’ wallpaper. I told myself that I will do it for the country,” Siraj said during the post-match presentation.
He later showed the same wallpaper to the media, proving that his mindset was as instrumental as his skill in India’s stunning comeback.
The 30-year-old pacer removed Jamie Smith, Jamie Overton, and Gus Atkinson in a five-over spell that shattered England’s hopes. Siraj finished with nine wickets in the match, including a crucial five-for on the final day, and was named the Player of the Match.
India’s Comeback Fueled by Self-Belief and Grit
England, at one point, were cruising at 301 for 3, with Harry Brook and Joe Root leading the charge. Siraj had earlier dropped Brook on 19, a moment that seemed to tilt the game toward England as the batter went on to score a century. Root also brought up his 39th Test hundred.
“I didn’t think I’d touch the cushion when I took it. It was a match-changing moment. Brook got into T20 mode. We were behind the game after that, but thank Almighty. I thought the match was gone,” Siraj admitted candidly.
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But things began to shift in the last session of Day 4, and by Day 5, England was collapsing under the pressure. Siraj’s aggressive and meticulous bowling broke through the tail with the team’s excitement and well-placed fields.
Stepping Up in Bumrah’s Absence
With Jasprit Bumrah rested for the final Test, the onus was on Siraj to lead the pace attack—and he didn’t disappoint. His tally of 23 wickets made him the highest wicket-taker of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, ahead of more seasoned players.
“I always believe that I can win the game from any point,” Siraj said, summing up both his mindset and India’s resilience throughout the series.
A Fitting Finish to a Thrilling Series
With the victory, India spectacularly won the final Test and tied the five-match series at two. Siraj’s spell will be remembered not only for the wickets but also for his unflinching belief, which inspired an entire nation and altered the course of the game.
This was more than just a numerical win; it was a victory of faith, tenacity, and an unflinching spirit.
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