England clinched a crucial victory against India with a 26-run win in the third T20 international match held in Rajkot, India on Tuesday. Ben Duckett's explosive 28-ball innings set the stage for England's total of 171-9. Varun Chakravarthy shone for India, claiming figures of 5-24. Despite his efforts, England's bowlers proved formidable, restricting India to 145-9.
Duckett's partnership with skipper Jos Buttler was pivotal, as they amassed 76 runs. England’s fast bowlers played a crucial role, striking regularly to keep India under pressure. Jofra Archer initiated the breakthrough with the early dismissal of Sanju Samson, and Brydon Carse soon followed suit by removing Abhishek Sharma for 24. Jamie Overton also made significant contributions, taking three wickets during India's chase.
Adil Rashid delivered an impressive four-over spell, conceding just 15 runs and claiming the crucial wicket of Tilak Varma. Overton furthered England's advantage by dismissing Washington Sundar, while Mark Wood sent back India's skipper, Suryakumar Yadav, with a sharp delivery caught by wicketkeeper Phil Salt.
Chakravarthy's brilliant bowling display included taking two more wickets in his final over, securing his second five-wicket haul in T20 internationals. Despite his valiant performance, India struggled to build momentum against England's disciplined attack.
Liam Livingstone provided a moment of resistance for England, powerfully striking Ravi Bishnoi for three sixes in four balls, adding crucial runs to the total. The combined efforts of Archer and Carse, who both claimed two wickets each, ensured that England maintained control throughout India's innings.
The victory keeps England's hopes alive in the T20 series. The fourth match is set to take place on Friday in Pune, where both teams will vie for supremacy as the series progresses.
