The third T20I in Rajkot saw England fight back in style, securing a 26-run victory over India to keep the five-match series alive at 2-1. Despite a brilliant five-wicket haul from Varun Chakravarthy, India’s batting faltered against England’s disciplined bowling attack, led by Adil Rashid and Mark Wood.
England 171/9 (20) | India 145/9 (20) | England won by 26 runs
England’s Gritty Batting Performance
After being put in to bat, Ben Duckett anchored England’s innings with a composed half-century, while Liam Livingstone provided a late flourish. However, it was Varun Chakravarthy’s magical spell (5/25) that dismantled England’s middle order, restricting them to 171/9 in 20 overs.
England’s lower order, particularly Adil Rashid (14) and Mark Wood (12)**, stitched a crucial late partnership, adding valuable runs that made a significant difference in the final outcome.
India’s Struggles with the Bat
Chasing 172, India lost Sanju Samson early, and wickets kept tumbling at regular intervals. Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Tilak Varma failed to make a substantial impact, leaving India in trouble. Adil Rashid (2/23) was exceptional, keeping India’s aggressive batters in check, while England’s pace duo of Mark Wood and Brydon Carse consistently applied pressure.
Despite some resilience from Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel, the required run rate kept climbing, and England’s well-executed bowling plan ensured that India never gained momentum. Eventually, India fell short by 26 runs, giving England their first win of the series.
Captains’ Reactions
Suryakumar Yadav (India captain): “We had the game in our hands when Hardik and Axar were batting, but credit goes to Adil Rashid for bowling a world-class spell. We have to go back, reassess, and come back stronger.”
Jos Buttler (England captain): “Our bowlers adapted well. Rashid was brilliant, and the pacers backed him up superbly. We kept taking wickets at crucial moments, and that was the difference.”
Player of the Match: Varun Chakravarthy (5/25, 4 overs)
Despite India’s loss, Varun Chakravarthy’s outstanding spell was the highlight of the match. The mystery spinner became the first bowler in T20I history to claim two five-wicket hauls in losing causes.
“Sad we didn’t get over the line, but that’s the nature of the game. I’m working on my flipper, and I believe I can get even better,” Chakravarthy reflected.
Series Update & What’s Next?
With this victory, England keeps their hopes alive, making the final two matches must-win encounters for both sides. India will look to bounce back and seal the series in the 4th T20I in Ranchi on January 31. England, on the other hand, will aim to carry forward the momentum and push for a decider in Ahmedabad.
Closing Thoughts: Vegas11 & Arjun’s Take
This thrilling contest once again proved how unpredictable T20 cricket can be. Cricket expert Arjun highlighted the importance of middle-order contributions and how fantasy cricket players on Vegas11 can capitalize on such matchups. Don’t miss out on the upcoming games—set your fantasy teams on Vegas11 and be part of the action!
Stay tuned for more updates as the series intensifies!