Adil Rashid’s stunning spell helps England secure a 26-run victory against India in the third T20, narrowing the series to 2-1.
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England’s Fightback Led by Rashid Keeps the Series Alive
England’s third T20 match against India in Rajkot showcased the importance of spin in cricket as Adil Rashid delivered a masterclass. His figures of 1/15 not only controlled India’s chase but also provided the crucial breakthrough of Tilak Varma, the star of India’s previous victory. With England defending 171, Rashid’s brilliance gave the visitors their first win of the series, narrowing India’s lead to 2-1 with two games remaining.
England’s Innings: A Tale of Two Halves
England’s start to the match saw flashes of brilliance, particularly from Ben Duckett, who scored a quick-fire 51 off 28 balls. Duckett’s aggressive approach included scoops, reverse sweeps, and a barrage of boundaries, unsettling the Indian bowlers early. Alongside captain Jos Buttler, Duckett built a solid partnership of 76 runs.
However, Varun Chakravarthy turned the tide in India’s favor with a phenomenal spell, claiming 5/25. The 33-year-old spinner, known for his precision and deceptive variations, sent key English batters back to the pavilion in quick succession. England crumbled from 108/3 to 127/8 in a dramatic collapse.
Liam Livingstone, however, salvaged England’s innings with a gutsy 43 off 24 balls, which included several powerful strikes over the boundary. His effort ensured a competitive total of 171.
India’s Chase: Rashid Stalls Momentum
India’s reply began with early setbacks, as Jofra Archer and Mark Wood struck in the powerplay. Archer dismissed Sanju Samson cheaply, while Wood got rid of the dangerous Suryakumar Yadav.
Tilak Varma, India’s emerging batting sensation, looked poised to guide his team once again. After a fluent start that included elegant drives and flicks, Varma seemed set to anchor the chase. However, Rashid’s introduction changed the game.
In his very first over, Rashid deceived Varma with a sharply turning delivery, clean bowling him and leaving India reeling at 70/4. Rashid’s spell tightened England’s grip, as he kept the Indian batters restricted to singles, denying them any chance to accelerate.
Hardik Pandya Fights, But England Prevails
Despite the mounting pressure, Hardik Pandya launched a late counterattack, scoring 40 off 35 balls. Pandya’s efforts brought brief hope to the Indian side, but it was too little too late. Jamie Overton mixed up his pace effectively, claiming three crucial wickets to seal the 26-run victory for England.
Key Performances of the Match
Adil Rashid: The Game-Changer
- Figures: 4 overs, 1/15
- Key Wicket: Tilak Varma
Rashid’s control and variations were unmatched, and his ability to extract turn on the Rajkot surface proved decisive.
Varun Chakravarthy: A Spin Wizard
- Figures: 5/25
Chakravarthy’s stunning spell dismantled England’s middle order, keeping India in contention.
Ben Duckett and Liam Livingstone: The Batting Heroes
- Duckett: 51 (28 balls)
- Livingstone: 43 (24 balls)
Both batters ensured England had enough runs to defend despite a middle-order collapse.
Hardik Pandya: Lone Warrior for India
- 40 (35 balls)
Pandya’s fightback came too late as the required run rate soared beyond reach.
Looking Ahead: Can England Build Momentum?
With two matches left in the series, England’s victory will boost their morale. For India, addressing middle-order vulnerabilities and finding solutions against spin will be critical. The next match promises high stakes as both teams aim to gain the upper hand.
Why Adil Rashid’s Spin Matters for England’s Campaign
England’s pace attack often takes center stage, but Rashid’s performance underlined the value of spin. His ability to bowl in high-pressure situations gives England a balanced attack, crucial for matches in subcontinental conditions.
