London, Aug 4 (NationPress) England Test captain Ben Stokes, who was sidelined from the fifth Test due to a shoulder injury, expressed his deep disappointment at the loss at The Oval after India claimed a thrilling six-run victory on the final day, leveling the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series at 2-2.

With 35 runs needed and four wickets remaining on the last day, England seemed poised for victory. However, a remarkable comeback by India, spearheaded by pacers Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, turned the tide. Siraj took five wickets while Krishna secured four, leading India to a nail-biting finish.

Stokes stated in the post-match presentation, "It’s obviously always challenging when you're unable to participate in the game. Another fiercely contested match, right down to Day 5, where both teams have exerted tremendous energy and effort. I am very bitterly disappointed that we couldn’t clinch the win. However, I am extremely proud of my team's contributions."

Commenting on Chris Woakes' brave decision to bat with his left arm in a sling, Stokes praised his team for their determination.

"It's disheartening not to secure the series victory. In that crucial moment, there was no doubt in Woakesy’s mind about batting. He spent the previous day deliberating on how to approach it. We've had players who’ve competed with broken fingers and feet. This exemplifies the commitment these athletes have towards their country. I’m immensely proud of their efforts, and I believe Shubman feels the same," the all-rounder remarked.

Regarding the India-England Test rivalry, Stokes appreciated the intensity exhibited by both teams during the series.

"The India-England series is always significant, filled with emotion. We won’t be losing sleep over the exchanges that occurred on the field, and neither will the Indian players; it's all part of the passion. I have worked incredibly hard to fulfill my role as an allrounder," he commented.

As Stokes continues to recover from his shoulder injury, he is preparing for the upcoming Ashes series against Australia later this year.

"It’s disappointing to have missed this game. Now, it’s time for rehabilitation and anticipation for the big one (the Ashes). When one of your bowlers gets injured early in the match, everyone's role shifts. The heart and determination the key players exhibited in that second innings were commendable.

"All we ask is for our players to give their all on the field. It’s not ideal when a bowler goes down, but the effort from our three fast bowlers was remarkable," Stokes concluded.