India pulled off a narrow six-run win in the final Test at The Oval, leveling the fiercely contested five-match series at 2-2. The visitors mounted a powerful comeback on Monday morning, dismissing England’s final four batters and bowling them out for 367.

Stokes accepts series draw but admits frustration

England captain Ben Stokes, who missed the final Test due to a shoulder injury, said the team was naturally disappointed and frustrated not to secure a series win. However, he acknowledged that the outcome was probably fair given the competitiveness of the matches.

Stokes pointed out that all five Tests were closely fought and went down to the final day. He described the series as a battle between two top teams that gave everything on the field.

Series praised as a celebration of Test cricket

The England skipper emphasized that the quality of cricket during the series served as a strong defense of the Test format. As a passionate supporter of the traditional format, Stokes said this series was a prime example of why Test cricket is still relevant and exciting.

He expressed hope that the thrilling matches would help silence ongoing concerns about the future of the longest format in the game.

Root and Brook partnership gave England hope

Stokes also praised the second-innings stand between Joe Root and Harry Brook, which gave England a real shot at chasing the 380-run target. He explained that although the target was massive, the pitch became easier for batting as the game progressed.

He said Brook played an attacking innings that forced Indian bowlers out of their rhythm. According to him, Brook's hundred included some remarkable shots and put India under real pressure. While Brook got out playing a shot he had already played several times that innings, Stokes felt the approach had earned admiration from many.

Woakes and other injured players showed courage

Stokes also highlighted the courage shown by Chris Woakes, who batted with a fractured and strapped arm. He said there was never any doubt in Woakes’ mind about going out to bat despite the pain.

The skipper also acknowledged the bravery of other players on both sides, including Rishabh Pant, who played with a broken foot, and Shoaib Bashir, who bowled and fielded with a broken finger.

He said that Woakes came out to bat despite a recently dislocated shoulder, which underlined the intensity and commitment shown by both teams. According to Stokes, every player gave their all and left everything on the field for the sake of their country and the game.