London, Aug 4 (NationPress) Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan praised Mohammed Siraj, describing him as someone with an iron body with a heart of a lion after the pacer delivered one of the most remarkable performances of his Test career, leading India to an astonishing six-run victory over England in the fifth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval on Monday.

This thrilling triumph allowed the Shubman Gill-led team to equalize the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series at 2-2.

On the final day of the series, India needed to secure four wickets while defending just 35 runs. The way Siraj and Prasidh Krishna bowled in the initial spell dramatically turned the match in favor of the tourists.

Siraj took the vital wicket of Jamie Smith, followed by Jamie Overton in the same over, putting England in a tough spot. Krishna contributed with a precise yorker that sent Josh Tongue back to the pavilion, bringing India closer to a historic victory.

Despite a shoulder injury, Chris Woakes bravely stepped up to bat, keeping England’s hopes alive. Gus Atkinson momentarily reignited the chase with a spirited six, narrowing the gap to just 11 runs. However, Siraj clinched the match by dismantling Atkinson’s off stump, sealing an exhilarating win.

On X, formerly Twitter, Irfan shared, "Iron body with heart of a lion Mohammed Siraj."

Irfan's elder brother, former Indian all-rounder Yusuf Pathan, also expressed his joy over India’s win in London, commending Siraj and Krishna for taking nine wickets together in the final innings.

"This is one of the finest Test matches in recent years! This is what true Test cricket embodies. Exceptional performances by P. Krishna and Siraj. Well done, India! #INDvENG #TestCricket," Yusuf posted on X.

Legendary Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh also praised the pace duo of Siraj and Prasidh for their outstanding efforts and congratulated the team for a memorable tour.

"Outstanding from Siraj and Prasidh. What a victory for us. Great Test match. Kudos to every team member, @ShubmanGill. You all have won our hearts. Love you guys," he posted on X.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan described the series as "incredible" and commended the determination and bravery exhibited by both teams. "Wow... I haven’t experienced anything like that. An incredible series... #ENGvIND," he shared on social media.

Siraj, who took five wickets in the final Test, was named Player of the Match for capturing 23 wickets, the highest during the tour, throughout the series.