As of January 29, 2025, the Indian cricket team is in the middle of a thrilling five-match T20 International series against England. After winning the first two games, India appeared to be in a strong position to wrap up the series. However, England bounced back with a crucial 26-run victory in the third T20 at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, keeping their hopes alive. With this result, India maintains a 2-1 lead, and both teams now shift focus to the fourth T20 in Ranchi on February 1.
Match Recap: England’s Resurgence in Rajkot
Winning the toss, England opted to bat first, looking to capitalize on a surface favoring batsmen. Their plan worked, as Ben Duckett delivered an explosive 51 off just 28 balls, providing a fiery start. His innings featured six boundaries and two towering sixes, pressuring India’s bowlers early in the game. India’s bowling unit, however, fought back, with Varun Chakravarthy leading the charge. The leg-spinner was sensational, claiming five wickets for just 22 runs, choking England’s scoring in the middle overs. Despite his brilliance, England managed to post a competitive 176/7 in 20 overs, aided by vital contributions from Jos Buttler (32 off 23) and Liam Livingstone (27 off 18).
Adil Rashid’s Brilliance Stuns India’s Batting Lineup
Chasing 177, India began steadily, with Yashasvi Jaiswal (24 off 17) and Shubman Gill (28 off 18) laying a solid foundation. The duo looked comfortable, rotating the strike effectively and punishing loose deliveries. However, the game turned dramatically when England’s spin maestro Adil Rashid came into the attack. His exceptional spell of 4 overs for just 15 runs, including the key wicket of Suryakumar Yadav, completely derailed India’s momentum. Rashid’s control and variation restricted India’s scoring, creating pressure that led to frequent dismissals.
Despite Hardik Pandya’s late counterattack (37 off 22), the lower order failed to provide the needed support. India collapsed for 150 in 19.3 overs, falling short by 26 runs.
Key Performers of the Match
England:
Ben Duckett – 51 off 28 balls (6 fours, 2 sixes)
Adil Rashid – 4 overs, 15 runs, 1 wicket
Chris Jordan – 2 wickets in the death overs
India:
Varun Chakravarthy – 5 wickets for 22 runs
Hardik Pandya – 37 off 22 balls
Shubman Gill – 28 off 18 balls
Series Outlook & Upcoming Matchesss
England’s victory keeps the series alive, trailing 1-2 in the five-match contest. The fourth T20 in Ran-chi on February 1 offers India a chance to seal the series, while England will aim to level the contest and push for a decider in Ahmadabad. With the ICC T20 World Cup fast approaching, this series acts as a critical test for both teams. England’s improved approach against India’s spin attack and India’s middle-order stability will be key areas to watch.
”England bounces back in Rajkot, defeating India by 26 runs in the 3rd T20. India leads 2-1 as the series heads to Ranchi. Key performances & match recap inside”!
