England captain Ben Stokes expressed his disappointment after his team's dramatic six-run loss to India at The Oval, which resulted in a 2-2 series draw. Despite the defeat, Stokes acknowledged the high quality of cricket played throughout the series and praised the commitment and effort from both teams.

Stokes, who missed the final Test due to a shoulder injury, watched from the sidelines as England, chasing a target of 374, collapsed under pressure on the final morning. They had been in a strong position at 301-3 on Sunday, but lost their last seven wickets for just 66 runs. Mohammed Siraj's impressive bowling performance, claiming three of the four wickets that fell on Monday, sealed the victory for India. Stokes admitted that the dropped catches in India's second innings proved costly.

Despite the frustration of not securing a series win, Stokes lauded the overall series as a testament to the enduring appeal of Test cricket. He highlighted the ebb and flow of the matches, with both teams exchanging control at various stages. Stokes said the series had been "fantastic to be a part of".

Stokes also defended Harry Brook, whose dismissal was a turning point in England's collapse. Brook had scored a brilliant century, putting the Indian bowlers under pressure. Stokes said Brook "got us into that position by playing in a particular way". Stokes also praised Chris Woakes' courage, who batted despite a dislocated shoulder. Stokes firmly dismissed the idea of allowing player substitutions in cricket. "I don't see it being a thing," he said.

Stokes singled out Mohammed Siraj for special praise, acknowledging his relentless performance throughout the series. Siraj finished the series with the most wickets (23). "I've always had great respect and admiration for Mohamed Siraj as a competitor. He just keeps coming and coming and coming," Stokes said.

Looking ahead, Stokes said that some players would take away valuable lessons about themselves from the series, especially regarding their character under pressure. He specifically mentioned Chris Woakes' injury and the impact it had on the team. Stokes said that the "never-say-die, never-back-down attitude" the team has instilled nearly paid off.