It was a hard day at the office for England, who were on the receiving end of India’s ‘lucky’ concussion substitute, where Harshit Rana replaced Shivam Dube. Saqib Mahmood and Harry Brook gave the visitors the best chance but the Indian bowlers held their nerves to restrict 181 runs in Pune. The five-match series win comes at a crucial juncture for Gautam Gambhir, who faced the wrath after losing two back-to-back Test series losses against New Zealand and Australia. Now, under Gambhir’s tutelage and Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy, India have won the series with one match still remaining.
Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya “overpower” England
India clinched a thrilling 15-run victory over England, sealing the series 3-1 with a game to spare. Despite a strong start from England, led by Harry Brook’s explosive 51 off 26 balls, the visitors faltered in the middle overs, unable to convert their momentum into a successful chase.
After posting 180+ in the first innings, thanks to crucial half-centuries from Hardik Pandya (53 off 30) and Shivam Dube (53 off 34), India knew they had a fighting total. However, England looked in control early on, racing past 60 runs in the powerplay with just one wicket down. It was then that India’s tactical switch to spin paid off, as Ravi Bishnoi struck immediately to dismiss Ben Duckett, triggering a phase where England lost wickets at key moments.
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The match-changing “sub”
The real twist came when Shivam Dube had to be substituted due to a concussion, bringing Harshit Rana into the attack. This move didn’t sit well with the English camp, but Rana made an immediate impact, picking up a wicket with just his second ball in T20Is. Though he leaked runs in his second over, the pressure remained on England as wickets continued to tumble.
Harry Brook and Jamie Overton threatened to turn the game around with their counterattacking partnership, but ill-timed shots and some brilliant Indian fielding ensured the visitors couldn’t get over the line. The decision-making under pressure proved costly for England, with their batters unable to build meaningful partnerships after the powerplay.
Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy was sharp, making timely bowling changes and ensuring his team stayed in the fight despite England’s early dominance. Ravi Bishnoi (3/28) was outstanding with the ball, while Hardik Pandya chipped in with crucial overs to keep England in check. With this win, India extended their home dominance in T20s, marking their 17th consecutive series victory.
Series Sealed!
— InsideSport (@InsideSportIND) January 31, 2025India clinch the T20I series against England 3-1 with one game to spare! #INDvsENG #IndianCricketTeam #SuryakumarYadav #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/pXNXu44QZI
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