London, July 20: England defeated India by 27 runs in the third and deciding ODI at Lord’s to seal the three-match series 2-1, registering their first bilateral ODI series victory over the world’s No. 1-ranked side since 2018.
Batting first after winning the toss, England piled up a formidable 387/3 in 50 overs. Ben Duckett starred with a magnificent 141 off 135 balls, setting a new record for the highest ODI score at Lord’s. Jacob Bethell contributed a fluent 91, while Joe Root remained unbeaten with a half-century. Jos Buttler provided the late fireworks with a blistering 41 off just 13 deliveries, helping England finish strongly.
India mounted a spirited chase, led by Rohit Sharma’s sensational 138 off 110 balls, featuring 17 fours and five sixes. He shared a 147-run opening stand with Shubman Gill, who scored 77, before adding another century partnership with Virat Kohli. Kohli continued the fight with 74, registering his first ODI half-century at Lord’s.
However, the turning point came when Bethell dismissed Rohit in the 39th over. Sam Curran then triggered a dramatic collapse, claiming four crucial wickets, including those of Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer and Kohli, to derail India’s chase. Jofra Archer also chipped in by bowling KL Rahul at a critical stage.
India eventually finished on 360/7 in their 50 overs despite a determined effort. Curran ended with figures of 4/75, while Bethell impressed with both bat and ball, making significant contributions in England’s series-clinching victory. The thrilling contest capped off a high-scoring series, with England emerging deserved winners after a commanding all-round performance.
