'A Tour That Asked...': Rishabh Pant Reflects On Gritty England Test Series After India Clinch Historic Win At The Oval

Rishabh Pant took to social media to share an emotional message after India’s dramatic six-run victory over England in the fifth and final Test at The Oval, which saw the series end in a 2-2 draw. The wicketkeeper-batter, who made a significant impact throughout the tour, praised the team’s resilience and unity in the face of relentless challenges.

In a heartfelt post on X, Pant wrote, "A tour that asked a lot and gave even more in return. Proud of how this team stood up, adapted and kept fighting. Representing the country means everything to us, it takes everything out of you but we take pride in that. Big thanks to our incredible support staff and the fans who stood by us throughout. This team is hungry, united and here to take Indian cricket forward."

The final match was a nail-biter, with India edging out England by just six runs in a tense finish. Mohammed Siraj starred with the ball, claiming a decisive five-wicket haul that broke the back of England’s batting lineup on the final day. His spell, filled with precision and aggression, turned the tide in India’s favor after England had looked well placed to chase down the target.

Pant’s post echoed the sentiments of a team that has endured a demanding tour, one that tested them not just physically but emotionally. Injuries, fluctuating form, and pressure-packed moments characterized the series, but the Indian team’s response was marked by grit and resolve.

With the series now drawn, India can take pride in their comeback after being down and facing intense scrutiny. The win at The Oval, sealed by Siraj’s brilliance, offered a fitting finale to a fiercely contested series.

IND Vs ENG, 5th Test, Day 5: Mohammed Siraj Hits Iconic 'Siu' Celebration After Taking India To A Thrilling Win Over England At The Oval; Video

In a nerve-racking finish to an unforgettable series, Mohammed Siraj delivered the knockout blow as India edged out England by just 6 runs on Day 5 of the fifth Test at The Oval. With the series on the line and England needing only a handful of runs, Siraj stepped up in style to take the final wicket of Gus Atkinson, securing a dramatic win and helping India level the five-match series 2-2.

Siraj, who was outstanding with the ball throughout England’s second innings, produced a near-perfect delivery that beat Atkinson's bat and shattered the stumps. The celebration that followed was just as electric as Siraj broke into his signature ‘Siu’ celebration, a move popularised by Cristiano Ronaldo, as the Indian team erupted in joy.

The wicket not only gave India a hard-fought win in a closely contested match but also marked a personal milestone for Siraj, who claimed a five-wicket haul in the innings. His fiery spell was the turning point in a game that kept swinging back and forth until the final moments.

India's win came after they were dismissed for 224 in their first innings and had to claw their way back with a spirited bowling effort. England looked within reach of victory on multiple occasions, but India's relentless pace attack, led by Siraj and supported by Prasidh Krishna and Akash Deep, never let up.

Siraj’s passion, precision, and match-winning performance earned praise from teammates, pundits, and fans alike. His animated celebration was the perfect ending to a thrilling match and a reminder of his growing stature as one of India’s most dependable pacers in all formats.