England pulled off a famous series triumph over India, storming back from 1-0 down to win the final two matches and clinch the ODI series at Lord’s. It was a result captain Harry Brook called “a fantastic achievement” against the world’s No. 1 side.
England posted an imposing 387 in the first innings, powered by a magnificent 192-run opening partnership between Jacob Bethell and Ben Duckett. Brook was full of praise for his openers, describing their start as “phenomenal” and noting that getting through 20 to 30 overs without losing a wicket, without taking undue risks, was an “outstanding partnership.”
Joe Root then continued his sublime series form, following his platform-setters with a trademark innings, before Jos Buttler finished things off in style. Brook summed it up as “a very, very good all-round batting performance.”
Root’s contribution was part of a stellar series overall. He ended with scores of 99*, 76* and 74* across the three matches, form that earned him the Player of the Series award. Reflecting afterwards, Root framed the win as part of a broader upward trend for the team, pointing to their earlier series win in Sri Lanka as evidence of England’s progression with a World Cup on the horizon.
IND vs ENG 3rd ODI: Rohit Sharma’s century in vain as India’s chase unravels late
India’s reply was built around a brilliant, swashbuckling century from Rohit Sharma, whose 140 came at a time when speculation over his retirement had dominated headlines before the match. But the chase lost momentum as Bethell and Sam Curran squeezed the game with tight, disciplined spells in tandem.
Brook revealed the tactical thinking behind sticking with Bethell for a long spell came down to communication with head coach Brendon McCullum. After coming off for an over to consult with “Baz,” the team decided to persist with Bethell, who went on to bowl seven or eight overs straight through, a passage Brook described as “a really vital part of the game.”
Gill reflects on a costly finish
India captain Shubman Gill conceded his side had remained competitive deep into the innings, saying India were “right in the game” up until the 40th over, before conceding around 60 runs across the final three overs, the turning point that put the match out of reach.
Gill also pointed to a wayward Powerplay from India’s bowlers as a key factor, admitting too many off-side deliveries allowed Bethell and Duckett to get themselves in, after which the pair “capitalised” and never let India back into the contest.
Despite the series defeat, Gill struck a balanced note, highlighting the positives from the series, with runs and wickets spread across the squad, while paying tribute to Rohit Sharma’s innings, calling his 140 “a treat to watch” on a pitch he felt had slowed up as the game wore on.
Get the Latest Cricket Updates at IceCric.News. Also, Follow Our Social Media for live updates on Facebook and Instagram.
