Former England captain Michael Atherton has weighed in on the recent Test series between India and England, rating it highly but still placing it below the legendary 2005 Ashes. Widely regarded as one of the greatest cricket contests ever, the 2005 Ashes saw England edge Australia 2-1 in a gripping display of skill and drama.

The latest India-England clash had no shortage of memorable moments. Rishabh Pant, serving as India’s Test vice-captain, lit up the series with twin centuries in the opener, even though England chased down their second-highest total in Test history. India struck back at Edgbaston with a commanding performance.

At Lord’s, Ravindra Jadeja’s stubborn resistance nearly carried India to victory, but England held their nerve to secure a tense 22-run win. Facing a 2-1 deficit, India suffered a blow when Pant fractured his toe. Displaying grit, he returned to post a fighting half-century, helping India secure a draw.

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The series finale at The Oval saw India dismantle England’s batting, claiming six wickets for just 35 runs in a sensational spell that sealed the contest.

Speaking on Sky Sports alongside Nasser Hussain, Michael Atherton reflected on whether this series could match — or even surpass — the 2005 Ashes. “I don’t think the quality was as good as ’05. I haven’t seen a better series than that — a great team on the decline and an emerging side with world-class players at their peak,” Atherton said.

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He did, however, rank it just behind the iconic Ashes. “The 2023 Ashes was brilliant, but this was probably the best since ’05 because of those dramatic moments — from Chris Woakes’ heroics to Rishabh Pant’s brilliance.”

England ultimately claimed the series 2-1, capping off a hard-fought battle that will be remembered for its intensity and individual brilliance.