When a Test series keeps fans glued to their screens until the very last ball, you know it’s special. That’s exactly what the England vs India Test series delivered—a rollercoaster of emotions, dramatic twists, and unforgettable performances.
In a special episode of Extra Analysis, cricket greats Stuart Broad and Ravi Shastri shared their thoughts on what made this series so gripping.
The series ended at The Oval with a heart-stopping finish. England, chasing a massive 374-run target, looked set for glory as Harry Brook (111) and Joe Root (105) stitched together a stunning 195-run partnership.
But just when victory seemed inevitable, India’s Mohammed Siraj produced a match-winning spell, taking 5 wickets and snatching a 6-run win for his team.
“Moments like these remind you why Test cricket is unmatched,” Broad said, praising the intensity and unpredictability of the format.
Stuart Broad called the series one of the most entertaining he’s ever seen. He highlighted how every match had its own storyline—comebacks, collapses, and heroics from both sides. “You don’t just watch games like these,” he said. “You live them.”
Broad also pointed out how the Brook-Root partnership symbolized England’s fearless approach, while Siraj’s spell showed India’s ability to deliver under pressure.
For Ravi Shastri, the defining feature of the series was resilience. He praised Shubman Gill’s captaincy, especially his double century earlier in the series, calling it “a statement innings” that set the tone for India.
Shastri also underlined the mental battle between bat and ball: “You can have all the skills in the world, but in moments like these, it’s your character that gets you across the line.”
Key Performances That Stole the Show
- Shubman Gill’s Double Ton: The highest score by an Indian captain in England, cementing his rise as a leader.
- Brook and Root’s Stand: A partnership that almost pulled off one of England’s greatest chases.
- Siraj’s Spell: A fiery 5-wicket burst that turned the Oval finale on its head.
- Chris Woakes’ Courage: Battling injury, Woakes came out to bat with his arm in a sling—an image that summed up England’s fighting spirit.
- A reminder that the longest format still produces the sport’s most compelling drama.
Shastri put it best: “If you want to show the world why Test cricket matters, just show them this series.”
With both teams now gearing up for their next challenges, this series sets the stage for a new era. Players like Gill, Brook, and Jaiswal are already being talked about as the next “Fab Four,” while bowlers like Siraj have proven they can deliver on the biggest stages.
Broad summed it up perfectly: “This wasn’t just cricket—it was theatre. And everyone played their part.”
