India beat England in fifth Test to clinch series 4-1

India secured a resounding victory over England in the final test, clinching the five-match series 4-1 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association stadium on Saturday. England, trailing by 259 runs, succumbed to an all-out total of 195 during the second session on day three.

Despite Joe Root's commendable effort with a score of 84 and Jonny Bairstow's brief innings of 39, the rest of the English batting lineup faltered against India's formidable spin attack. Ravichandran Ashwin, celebrating his 100th test appearance, played a pivotal role, claiming 5-77 in the final innings and securing a total match haul of nine wickets.

In a historic moment, England's James Anderson became the first fast bowler to reach 700 test wickets when he dismissed Kuldeep Yadav (30) caught behind. The accomplishment was acknowledged with a standing ovation from the "Barmy Army" fans. However, England's morale dwindled as they faced a substantial first-innings deficit.

Opening with a spin-dominated attack, India utilized Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah to dismantle the English batting order. Ashwin struck early, dismissing Ben Duckett (two) and Zak Crawley for a duck in quick succession. Ollie Pope's breezy 19 ended with a sweep attempt against Ashwin, caught by Yashasvi Jaiswal.

In a riveting contest between two centurions, Jonny Bairstow showcased aggression with three sixes against Ashwin but fell victim to Kuldeep Yadav's lbw trap after scoring 39. Ashwin, back in the attack, concluded the session by disturbing Ben Stokes' stumps just before lunch.

Root fought a solitary battle, lacking support from his teammates, and eventually became the last man dismissed after holing out to Bumrah at long on.