India wins fourth T20I against England by 15 runs, clinching the series 3-1.
IND vs ENG: India secured an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match T20I series, defeating England by 15 runs in the fourth match. This victory marks India's 17th consecutive bilateral T20I series win since 2019. Batting first, India posted 181/9 thanks to half-centuries from all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, while England managed only 166 runs in reply.
Stellar Performances from Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube
India's innings had a shaky start, losing Rinku Singh at 79 runs. However, Hardik Pandya (53) and Shivam Dube (53) steadied the ship, forging an 87-run partnership off just 44 balls for the sixth wicket, propelling India to a respectable total. Pandya smashed four fours and four sixes in his 30-ball knock, while Dube hit seven fours and two sixes in his 34-ball innings.
Harshit Rana's Debut
Harshit Rana, making his debut as a concussion substitute for Shivam Dube, played a crucial role in India's victory by taking three wickets. He even bowled a delivery at 151 kmph, showcasing his impressive pace. Rana's outstanding performance offers a bright prospect for Indian cricket.
Indian Spinners Deliver Again
Chasing 182, England's batting line-up was once again stifled by India's spinners. After Ben Duckett's wicket at 62/3, the Indian spinners took control of the match. The trio of Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, and Varun Chakravarthy dismissed six English batsmen.
Saqib Mahmood's Impressive Spell
England's fast bowler Saqib Mahmood made his presence felt, claiming three crucial Indian wickets and putting India on the back foot. He dismissed Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, and Suryakumar Yadav in his opening over, delivering a significant blow to India's innings.
Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav Struggle
Sanju Samson's struggles continued in the fourth T20I against England, falling victim to Saqib Mahmood once again. His poor batting performance also affected his fielding, where he missed two opportunities. Meanwhile, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav's poor form persisted, scoring only 26 runs in this match.
Rinku Singh's Return
Rinku Singh returned from injury, while Mohammed Shami was once again omitted from the team. Arshdeep Singh, rested in the third T20I, was recalled for the fourth. All-rounder Shivam Dube made a significant contribution with the bat.
Key to India's Impressive Victory
India's victory was built on b partnerships and a balanced bowling attack. Harshit Rana, Ravi Bishnoi, and Axar Patel strengthened India's bowling, while Pandya and Dube's batting changed the game's momentum. This win solidifies India's unassailable lead in the T20I series and further reinforces their position as world champions in this format.
