The India vs. England 2025 Test series has been a thrilling chapter in cricket history, delivering unforgettable moments and showcasing the grit of both teams. With the series poised at a critical juncture as it heads to the fifth Test at The Oval, fans are buzzing with anticipation. From Shubman Gill’s heroic century to Ben Stokes’ controversial handshake drama, this series has had it all. In this article, we dive into the key moments, standout performances, and tactical battles that have defined the India-England 2025 Test series, offering a detailed analysis for cricket enthusiasts.
Shubman Gill’s Manchester Masterclass
One of the defining moments of the series came during the fourth Test at Old Trafford, where India, trailing 2-1, faced a daunting task to avoid defeat. Shubman Gill’s resolute 104 off 228 balls, supported by KL Rahul’s 90, anchored India’s second innings, steering them to a heroic draw. Gill’s century, studded with 12 fours, showcased his technical prowess and mental fortitude, silencing critics who questioned his form. India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir praised Gill, stating, “Anyone who doubts his talent clearly doesn’t understand cricket.” This partnership of 174 runs ignited hope for India, keeping the series alive at 2-1.
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Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar’s Century Stand
The Manchester Test also saw Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar script history with their defiant centuries. With India at 0/2 early in their second innings, the duo’s 99-run partnership turned the tide. Jadeja’s second Test ton and Sundar’s maiden century, scored under pressure, frustrated England’s bowlers. Their refusal to accept Ben Stokes’ premature draw offer on Day 5 sparked controversy but showcased India’s fighting spirit. Jadeja’s six off Harry Brook to reach his hundred was a moment of pure drama, cementing his status as a clutch performer.
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Ben Stokes’ Handshake Controversy
England captain Ben Stokes found himself at the center of a storm after refusing to shake hands with Jadeja following India’s draw in Manchester. Stokes, who offered a draw with 15 overs left, was irked when Jadeja and Sundar continued batting to reach their centuries. Critics, including Sunil Gavaskar, labeled Stokes’ actions as unsportsmanlike, while Gautam Gambhir defended his players, saying, “If someone’s batting on 90, they deserve to reach their milestone.” This incident has added a fiery rivalry to the series, setting the stage for a heated finale at The Oval.
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Rishabh Pant’s Courageous Fifty
Rishabh Pant’s grit defined India’s first innings in Manchester. Despite fracturing his toe on Day 1 while attempting a reverse sweep, Pant returned to score a valiant 54 off 75 balls, batting on one foot. His resilience inspired the team, with Gambhir calling it the “foundation of this Test team.” However, Pant’s injury ruled him out of the fifth Test, with Narayan Jagadeesan stepping in as his replacement. Pant’s absence will be a significant blow for India as they aim to level the series.
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Jasprit Bumrah’s Fitness and India’s Bowling Strategy
Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for the fifth Test at The Oval remains a hot topic. Initially planned to play only three Tests, Bumrah’s potential participation could be a game-changer, given his 50 wickets on English soil. His staircase stumble raised injury concerns, but Gambhir confirmed no final decision has been made. England’s batting, led by Joe Root’s sublime 150 in Manchester, exploited India’s bowling struggles, raising questions about Shubman Gill’s tactics. Former players like Navjot Singh Sidhu criticized India’s reliance on all-rounders, urging a rethink for the final Test.
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Tactical Battles: Bazball vs. India’s Resilience
England’s aggressive “Bazball” approach, led by Stokes and Brendon McCullum, met its match in India’s dogged resilience. England’s mammoth 669 in Manchester, driven by Root and Stokes’ centuries, tested India’s resolve. However, India’s ability to bat 143 overs in their second innings showcased their depth. Former coach Ravi Shastri suggested India adopt elements of Bazball to support young players like Sai Sudharsan, highlighting the contrast in philosophies. The Oval Test promises a tactical showdown as India aims to exploit England’s fatigued bowlers.
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What to Expect at The Oval
With the series at 2-1, the fifth Test at The Oval is a make-or-break moment. England, buoyed by Stokes’ all-round heroics (century and five-wicket haul in Manchester), will rely on fresh legs after nearly 900 overs in the field. India, bolstered by their Manchester escape, will bank on Gill, Jadeja, and possibly Bumrah to level the score. Rain could play a role, as it did in Manchester, but both teams are primed for a blockbuster finish.
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Why This Series Matters
The India vs. England 2025 Test series is more than just a contest—it’s a clash of cricketing philosophies, individual brilliance, and intense rivalries. For fans searching for “India vs. England 2025 highlights” or “Shubman Gill century,” this series delivers drama and inspiration. As India aims to draw level and England seeks to seal the series, the Oval Test will be a defining moment in the 2023-2025 World Test Championship cycle.
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Conclusion
The India vs. England 2025 Test series has showcased cricket at its finest, from Gill’s tenacity to Stokes’ fiery leadership. As the teams head to The Oval, fans can expect more twists in this enthralling rivalry. Stay tuned for live updates, scorecards, and in-depth analysis of the series finale. Which moment from the series has been your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Last Updated: July 28, 2025
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