Vizag: In a thrilling encounter, India secured a hard-fought 106-run victory against England, leveling the series at 1-1. As anticipated, England put up a strong fight in the chase, but India managed to make crucial breakthroughs to emerge triumphant.
England’s chase, marked by a commendable 292-run effort – the second-highest team score of the match, saw Zak Crawley playing a pivotal role with twin fifties and a top score of 73. The day began with Rehan Ahmed showcasing aggressive play, especially against Axar Patel, until he was dismissed by a low, sliding delivery from Patel, trapped LBW after a 45-run partnership.
Ollie Pope joined the attack, and Crawley remained a consistent force, using his reach effectively and playing calculated shots to maintain the pressure on the Indian bowlers. R Ashwin, with his spin, found drift and loop, challenging both edges, dismissing Pope with a sharp catch at slip and beating Joe Root in flight for another crucial wicket.
Crawley and Bairstow then built a brisk 40-run partnership, shifting momentum, but India made a comeback with two close LBW decisions in their favor. Kuldeep deceived Crawley with a skidder, and Bumrah trapped Bairstow leg before on umpire’s call.
Heading into the final session, England required 205 more runs with only four wickets in hand, including skipper Ben Stokes. Stokes, along with Ben Foakes, displayed a mix of caution and aggression, but a direct hit from Shreyas Iyer resulted in the skipper’s dismissal.
With the chase hanging in the balance at 220/7, England fought on with a 55-run partnership between Tom Hartley and Foakes. However, India’s relentless attack continued, as Bumrah deceived Foakes with a slower ball, and Mukesh Kumar contributed with some reverse swing to dismiss Shoaib Bashir. Bumrah then fittingly wrapped up the innings by bowling out Hartley, securing India’s thrilling victory.
The series now stands at 1-1, setting the stage for an exciting decider in the next match.