Awake early and full of vigor, India's Siraj demonstrated his extraordinary Test performance the very next day.
In a thrilling conclusion to the England vs India Test series, India managed to level the series 2-2, thanks in large part to the outstanding bowling performance of Mohammed Siraj.
Siraj, the Indian fast bowler, claimed an impressive 23 wickets at an average of 32.43 across the five matches, making him the leading wicket-taker of the series. His most impressive performance came in the final Test at The Oval, where he took a five-wicket haul and finished with figures of 5-104. His bowling helped India secure a narrow six-run victory—their narrowest-ever Test win and a historic moment marking the series draw.
Throughout the series, Siraj demonstrated both stamina and skill, delivering a total of 185.3 overs (more than 1100 deliveries). His impact was highlighted by the number of dismissals he achieved by bowling—part of a record 45 bowled dismissals in the series, the most in any men's Test series since 1984. His performance earned him a significant boost in the ICC Test bowler rankings, moving from 27th to 15th place after the series.
Key moments in the series that showcased Siraj's skill included dismissing England's Jamie Smith and Jamie Overton in the final Test, followed by bowling Gus Atkinson to clinch the victory and the series draw for India. Siraj also bowled with tactical mastery under pressure in the final sessions, delivering crucial yorkers that barred England's last hopes.
Meanwhile, Shubman Gill, India's captain, also had a memorable series. He scored a total of 754 runs in his first series as captain, including four centuries. His hundreds in Birmingham, Manchester, and The Oval were particularly significant, as they helped India win the second Test, save the drawn fourth Test, and secure a narrow victory in the fifth Test. Each of his hundreds in the series has a unique story and holds special significance for him.
Gill's performance in the morning of the fifth Test was particularly noteworthy, as he said it summarized what the team is all about. India fought back superbly to prevent England from breaking the record run chase of 263-9, with England ultimately losing the fifth test match by six runs.
The series was not only a personal triumph for Shubman Gill but also a testament to the strength and resilience of the Indian team. The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, named after two of cricket's greatest players, will be shared this year, marking a dramatic and exciting series that will be remembered for years to come.
India's sports-betting odds for securing a draw in the England vs India Test series could have been promising, given Siraj's impressive sports performance throughout. In the final Test at The Oval, Siraj managed a five-wicket haul, contributing significantly to India's six-run victory and the series draw.
