LONDON– Following India’s nail-biting six-run win in the fifth Test at The Oval, captain Shubman Gill credited the team’s relentless pressure strategy on Day Five for securing the victory.
India bowled England out for just 28 runs on the final day, taking the last four wickets to clinch the match and level the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series 2-2.
“Every Test went into Day Four and Day Five without a clear winner. It shows both teams brought their best games. I’m thrilled we came out on top in this one,” Gill said during the post-match presentation.
“There was definitely pressure on us, but the way we pushed through that phase was outstanding. Pressure can force mistakes, and we wanted England to feel that while chasing those runs,” he added.
India’s dramatic win was spearheaded by Mohammed Siraj, who took 5 for 104, and Prasidh Krishna, who claimed 4 for 126.
“When you have bowlers like Siraj and Prasidh, captaincy becomes easier. They made the ball talk. Siraj is every captain’s dream—every ball, every spell, he gave it his all for the team,” said Gill.
Gill, who was also named India’s Player of the Series by England head coach Brendon McCullum, finished as the series’ top run-scorer in his first outing as India’s Test captain.
“A 2-2 result is a fair reflection of how competitive and passionate both teams were. It’s very rewarding. I aimed to be the best batter in the series, and achieving that feels great. It all comes down to technical and mental adjustments—they go hand in hand. The biggest takeaway from the last six weeks? We never give up,” Gill concluded. (Source: IANS)
