India’s star batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma bid adieu to the Test format in May 2025, following which it was believed that the Test series against England would be a tough one to tackle for the young Indian side. Even though Kohli’s absence is still felt by his fans, the Indian team has moved forward. Against all odds, Gill’s side pulled off a remarkable feat by levelling the inaugural Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2-2, something few had predicted. The last time India toured England was in 2021 under Kohli’s leadership. They led 2-1 before the final Test was postponed. By the time it was rescheduled for 2022, Kohli had stepped down as captain, and India lost the decider at Edgbaston, resulting in a 2-2 series tie.
Although Kohli remains inactive on social media after retiring, he could not help but celebrate India’s legendary victory at The Oval. England, who were 374 behind and needed to accomplish a remarkable win, were headed for a miraculous victory at 301 for 4, with Joe Root and Harry Brook strongly set. But India dramatically turned things around, spurred on by a blazing Mohammed Siraj, who took his second five-wicket haul of the series and delivered a performance that will be talked about for years to come.
“Great win by Team India. Resilience and determination from Siraj and Prasidh have given us this phenomenal victory. Special mention to Siraj, who will put everything on the line for the team. Extremely happy for him,” Kohli posted on X.
Great win by team india. Resilience and determination from Siraj and Prasidh has given us this phenomenal victory. Special mention to Siraj who will put everything on the line for the team. Extremely happy for him ❤️@mdsirajofficial @prasidh43
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) August 4, 2025
Siraj, who made his debut under Kohli in 2017, was showered with high praise by the former Indian skipper. In the five-match series against England, despite Bumrah’s absence, Siraj stepped up and produced match-winning performances that resulted in India’s sole two Test victories in the series.
Finishing as the series’ leading wicket-taker with 22 dismissals, Siraj also bowled the most overs – 185 and 3 balls, which translates to a whopping 1113 balls. It was a Herculean task, particularly for a fast bowler overseas. His campaign wasn’t all smooth. At Lord’s, Siraj was the last man standing in a heart-wrenching 22-run defeat. But instead of allowing frustration to get the better of him, Siraj turned that pain into determination and excellence, taking 5 for 104 in the second innings to go along with his previous 4 for 86.
