London, August 4, 2025 – In a stunning display of grit and self-belief, a young and evolving Indian Test squad pulled off a historic victory in the fifth and final Test against England, drawing the away series 2-2. This marks India’s first-ever win in the fifth Test of an overseas series, achieved without the presence of seasoned icons like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Spearheaded by a defiant bowling performance from Mohammed Siraj and bold leadership by Shubman Gill, the team defied expectations and proved they are more than capable of carrying the weight of legacy and future hope.
India’s Fightback Redefined: Experts React
On JioHotstar’s Match Centre Live, cricket experts Sanjay Bangar and Varun Aaron broke down the magnitude of India’s achievement. Both hailed the win as symbolic of a team in transition, learning to fly on the wings of passion, resolve, and raw talent.
“So many doubts in Virat and Rohit’s absence, but they showed everyone what this Indian team is made of,” said Varun Aaron, adding that Siraj’s spell with the 80-over old Dukes ball was nothing short of heroic. “Unbelievable. Everything on the line — so much heart, so much dedication. This shouldn’t go unnoticed.”
Bangar highlighted Siraj’s contribution not just as a bowler but as a pillar of unity. “Siraj is all heart, all passion, and all skill. He always puts his hand up, no matter the situation,” he said. His ability to bowl long spells with the older ball, regardless of match conditions, speaks to his commitment and match-winning mindset.
A Defining Victory for Gill and Gambhir
This win was also a defining moment for Shubman Gill, who led India for the first time in a full Test series. Sanjay Bangar lauded Gill’s temperament and batting performances, stating that this victory will silence questions about his readiness to lead India in the longest format. “You’re never a perfect captain from Day 1, but when you produce performances like this—leading and scoring—you ease the pressure and learn faster,” he noted.
The Test series was equally important for Gautam Gambhir, newly appointed head coach. Having suffered losses to New Zealand at home and in Australia previously, Gambhir was under scrutiny. But the team’s refusal to give up, despite early setbacks in the series, affirmed his steady influence. “Even Gautam never gave up,” Bangar added. “That’s the mindset this team has embraced.”
Team India’s Mental Fortitude on Display
From KL Rahul to Yashasvi Jaiswal, Washington Sundar, and Ravindra Jadeja, nearly every member of the squad had pivotal moments through the series. What stood out, experts agreed, was their mental and physical endurance — being pushed to the edge yet choosing to rise with every fall.
Bangar remarked, “This is a defining trait for every member who played in this series. The ability to fight back under pressure will serve them well in future global tours.”
This 2-2 series draw may not count as a trophy win, but for Indian cricket, it is a symbolic passing of the torch. In the absence of legends, the next generation stepped up and delivered under fire. With Gill’s composed leadership, Siraj’s lion-hearted spells, and a squad driven by belief rather than reputation, India has not just leveled a series — they’ve raised the bar for resilience and revival in world cricket.
