England beat India by 118 runs in Alastair Cook’s farewell game to not only give him the perfect send-off but also end the five-match Test series with a 4-1 scoreline. at the Oval on Tuesday.
After being reduced to 2/3 in the fourth innings, centuries from Lokesh Rahul and Rishabh Pant gave India hope of a draw but England took five wickets after tea to end the number one ranked India's second innings on 345.
Adil Rashid removed both centurions, before Sam Curran struck twice to set the stage for Anderson, who also moved past McGrath as the fourth-highest wicket taker.
The final wicket of the match was taken by James Anderson who bowled Mohammed Shami for his 564th career wicket, surpassing the record of Glenn McGrath to become the most successful fast-bowler in test history.
Despite Anderson's heroics, Alastair Cook led England off the field having scored a century in the second innings in his 161st and final test match. He was also named the Man of the Match.
Here’s what the players and experts said about the match:
Alastair Cook: This has been the most amazing week, one you could not have scripted. Just been amazing. Great to contribute to an England win, and win the series 4-1. It was also a great game of cricket, to go into the last session of the last day with all four results possible. It was a great advert for Test cricket. It has been great moment, sad moments. The amount of hard work, the pressure and strain, I won't miss that. But you miss the highs and the rewards, playing with this team, be great to see how they develop. This week can't be beaten, I can walk away with my head held high.
Virat Kohli: I think the 1-4 scoreline is a fair one as England played better than us but we were not outplayed barring the Lord's Test. The kind of cricket we have played might not show on the scorecard. But both the teams know this series has been a competitive one.
Sachin Tendulkar: Fantastic display of controlled aggression by KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. This partnership is just one of the many fascinating moments this Test Series has provided us with. Test cricket at its absolute best.
Michael Vaughan: Great Test series. Both teams playing a starring role. Well done India, who have a high class team to compete in all conditions. But, England at home prove once again they have a very very strong team for these conditions.
Virender Sehwag: Congratulations England on the 4-1 series win. India were good in patches, but not consistent enough with the bat. Pant & Rahul’s display on the last day was very heartening, so were Kohli’s & the bowlers consistency throughout. Need to work a lot, to travel better. Ab Mission Australia
James Anderson: Happy that Cooky was on the field to see that wicket, it's been a tough week. When they were building the partnership it was looking like they would get close, my job was just to hold an end. Thankfully we took the new ball and gave me a chance to get the wicket. Cook has been brilliant, just being there all the time.
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