(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Dale Steyn’s Bold Prediction Comes True as Mohammed Siraj Seals Historic Win for India in 5th Test
Former South African fast bowler Dale Steyn had predicted it—and Mohammed Siraj delivered. Ahead of the fifth and final Test of the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, Steyn boldly forecasted on July 30 that Siraj would take a five-wicket haul. True to his word, the Indian pacer rose to the occasion and produced a match-winning performance at The Oval.
Siraj’s heroics helped India secure a dramatic six-run victory over England, leveling the five-match series 2-2. The win marked the narrowest margin by runs in India’s Test cricket history, showcasing the intensity and competitiveness of the series.
Siraj Shines Under Pressure
From the outset, Siraj was in red-hot form. In England’s first innings, he struck early and finished with four wickets, removing key batters like Joe Root, Ollie Pope, Harry Brook, and Jacob Bethell. His precision and pace unsettled the English lineup, putting India in a strong position.
With a target of 374 set for England in the final innings, the hosts looked poised to chase it down. However, Siraj had other plans. On the final day, with England needing just 35 runs and India chasing four wickets, Siraj triggered a collapse at just the right time.
He dismissed Jamie Smith and Jamie Overton in a fiery spell before delivering the match-defining yorker that bowled Gus Atkinson. That final delivery sealed a famous win and sent Indian fans into a frenzy.
From Prediction to Reality: Steyn’s Tweet Goes Viral
Dale Steyn had tweeted confidently just days earlier:
Siraj to take a fifer in 5th Test.
— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62), July 30, 2025
The post quickly gained traction after Siraj’s stunning performance, with thousands of fans lauding both Steyn’s foresight and Siraj’s execution.
Series Stats: Siraj Emerges as Top Wicket-Taker
Siraj ended the match with 9 wickets and finished the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy as the leading wicket-taker, claiming 23 wickets across the five Tests. With Jasprit Bumrah rested for the final match, Siraj took full responsibility and showcased his ability to lead India’s bowling attack under pressure.
India’s Bowling Depth on Full Display
India’s win at The Oval wasn’t just a victory; it was a statement. Siraj’s performance proved India’s growing bowling depth and their ability to deliver in crunch moments—even away from home. As the team builds toward future tours, performances like these will inspire confidence in their ability to compete and win anywhere in the world.
