Is This the Most Thrilling Series Since the 2005 Ashes?
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Synopsis
India's recent triumph at the Oval has not only sealed a dramatic 2-2 draw in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy but has also drawn comparisons to the legendary 2005 Ashes. Former England spinner Monty Panesar praises the series as one of the most exciting Test competitions in history. Discover the thrilling details of this unforgettable match!
Key Takeaways
- India secured a thrilling 2-2 draw in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
- Mohammed Siraj delivered an outstanding performance with a five-wicket haul.
- The final Test showcased remarkable cricketing skills from both teams.
- Monty Panesar praised the series as one of the most exciting since the 2005 Ashes.
- This match marked India's narrowest victory in Test history.
London, Aug 4 (NationPress) After India achieved a remarkable victory at the Oval, resulting in a thrilling 2-2 tie in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, former England spinner Monty Panesar praised their determination and labeled the series as the most exhilarating Test competition since the legendary 2005 Ashes between England and Australia, widely considered the pinnacle of Ashes history.
Pacer Mohammed Siraj delivered a stunning five-wicket haul as India executed an extraordinary four-wicket burst on a tension-filled final morning at The Oval, defeating England by a mere six runs to level the series.
"This victory is historic for India. They showcased exceptional cricket. At one point yesterday, when Joe Root and Harry Brook were batting, it seemed like the match was slipping away from them. However, the conditions this morning clearly favored India with the seam positions, and the pivotal decision was not to take the new ball. With the older ball, Siraj was phenomenal, while Krishna also maintained a fuller length. This is an iconic win, arguably the most thrilling series since 2005 between England and Australia," Panesar remarked to IANS on Monday.
"I anticipate that in the future, we will witness more five-Test series between England and India. The excitement has been unparalleled. Both teams displayed remarkable talent, but I believe India played the superior cricket. Overall, this has been an extraordinary Test series between England and India," he added.
Both teams entered Day 5 with victory within reach. Starting from 339/6, England required 35 runs to win while India needed to claim four wickets for a miraculous triumph. On the final day of this captivating Test series, Siraj continued his exceptional form from Day 4, delivering a breathtaking 5-104 in 30.1 overs to secure a memorable comeback victory for India.
Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, who recorded 4-126 in 27 overs, collaborated to ensure England lost their last four wickets for just 28 runs, culminating the series with a bowling display for the ages. This unbelievable victory in the fifth Test marks India’s narrowest win in their Test history.
Siraj, the sole pacer to participate in all matches of the series, earned the Player of the Match accolade for his resilient performance in the deciding Test, filling in for pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.
Point of View
This Test series showcased the exceptional skills of both England and India. As the Editor-in-Chief, I believe that the thrilling matches highlight the growing competitiveness between these cricketing nations. It is essential to recognize the efforts of both teams, as they pushed the limits of the game, providing fans with unforgettable moments.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy?
The series ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw after India's dramatic victory at the Oval.
Who was the standout player in the final Test?
Mohammed Siraj was the standout player, taking five wickets and securing the Player of the Match award.
How does this series compare to the 2005 Ashes?
Former England spinner Monty Panesar described this series as possibly the most exciting Test contest since the iconic 2005 Ashes.
