In a high-stakes match in the five-match T20 series, India secured an unassailable 3-1 lead against England with a dramatic victory. The contest, held on Thursday, was marked by a contentious decision involving a concussion substitute that left England’s captain Jos Buttler furious. England's innings ended at 166 all out with just two deliveries left, while India surged to victory thanks to pivotal performances and strategic bowling changes.
India faced early challenges as opener Sanju Samson fluffed his pull shot and number three Tilak Varma perished at deep third leg, followed by Captain Suryakumar Yadav getting caught at short mid-on. Despite these setbacks, India’s batting lineup displayed resilience. All-rounders Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya staged a remarkable counterattack with a robust 87-run partnership. Both players smashed identical scores of 53 each, showcasing their aggressive prowess on the field.
However, the spotlight turned to Harshit Rana, who came into play as a concussion substitute for Dube, who had been hit on the helmet by a bouncer from Jamie Overton. Rana made an impressive debut, claiming three crucial wickets and affirming his place in the team.
“I have been waiting for this moment to prove myself,” – Harshit Rana
England started strong with Phil Salt and Ben Duckett milking 32 runs from the first three overs of India's seam bowling. In response, Suryakumar Yadav made a strategic decision to employ spin from both ends after this explosive start. This tactical shift paid off as Ravi Bishnoi struck back through spin, dismissing Duckett and Buttler in successive overs, destabilizing England’s momentum.
The final over of India’s innings was eventful yet yielded only three runs against the fierce bowling of Jamie Overton. Meanwhile, England's fast bowler Saqib Mahmood impressed on his debut with a three-wicket maiden over, proving to be a formidable challenge for the Indian side.
Despite their efforts, England could not recover after India's spinners halted their progress. Jos Buttler expressed dissatisfaction over the decision to allow Harshit Rana as a concussion substitute, questioning its fairness.
“It’s not a like-for-like replacement. We don’t agree with that,” – Jos Buttler
The match concluded with India’s triumph, marking another chapter in their successful series campaign against England.
