MUMBAI: India’s dominant performance in the fifth T20 international against England saw them secure a comprehensive 150-run victory, thanks to a blistering 135-run knock by opener Abhishek Sharma. This victory sealed India’s 4-1 series win, with Abhishek’s 54-ball innings propelling India to a massive total of 247-9. England, despite a brave attempt from Phil Salt, were bowled out for just 97 runs, their second-largest defeat in T20 cricket by runs.
The match at Wankhede Stadium showcased India’s all-round brilliance, with both the batting and bowling departments putting on an impressive display. Let’s break down the key highlights of the match and explore how India emerged victorious in this exhilarating encounter.
Abhishek Sharma’s Blazing Knock Powers India to Massive Total
A Brilliant Start for India
India was invited to bat first after England won the toss, and the opening partnership began on a strong note. Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson set the stage for a high-scoring innings. Although Samson was dismissed for 16 runs, Abhishek took the game to England with an onslaught that had the crowd roaring.
Abhishek’s Incredible Fifty and Century
Abhishek took just 17 balls to reach his fifty, showcasing his aggressive stroke play right from the start. He smashed sixes all over the ground and continued his assault on the England bowlers. By the time he reached his second T20 century, Abhishek had accumulated 100 runs in just 37 balls, further cementing his status as one of the most exciting young talents in Indian cricket.
In a partnership with Tilak Varma, who contributed 24 runs, Abhishek added 115 runs for the second wicket, accelerating India’s score. His 135-run knock, which included 13 sixes, was a masterclass in aggressive batting. Sharma’s innings was the backbone of India’s total, and his ability to find the boundary with ease was a sight to behold.
Middle Order Struggles But Total Still Soars
The middle order, consisting of Suryakumar Yadav (2), Shivam Dube (30), Hardik Pandya (9), and others, failed to capitalize on the foundation laid by Abhishek. Brydon Carse was the standout bowler for England, taking three wickets, including Suryakumar and Shivam Dube.
Although the fall of wickets slowed India’s momentum, the damage had already been done. India managed to reach a formidable total of 247-9 by the end of their 20 overs.
England’s Disastrous Chase Ends in a 150-Run Defeat
Phil Salt’s Brave Effort Was Not Enough
England’s chase never really gained any traction. Phil Salt was the only batter who looked in any form, as he blasted a 23-ball 55. However, his dismissal by Shivam Dube, who took the first wicket of the innings, started a dramatic collapse.
Key English Failures
England’s top order crumbled quickly under pressure. Jos Buttler (7), Harry Brook (2), and Liam Livingstone (9) all failed to make an impact, with none of the top six batsmen able to build any partnerships.
Shivam Dube, who had taken Salt’s wicket, was a key performer with the ball. India’s spinners also played crucial roles in dismantling England’s batting order. Varun Chakravarthy and Ravichandran Ashwin took two wickets each, while Abhishek Sharma contributed with his left-arm spin, taking two wickets in his only over. Mohammed Shami was also in excellent form, taking three wickets and wrapping up England’s innings in just 10.3 overs.
England’s Collapse
By the time England reached 68-4, the match was all but over. Only Jacob Bethell (10) managed to reach double figures alongside Salt. The remaining wickets fell quickly as England’s batting crumbled under pressure, and they were bowled out for just 97 runs.
India’s Bowlers Deliver a Perfect Performance
Mohammed Shami Leads the Way
Mohammed Shami was the star of India’s bowling attack, finishing with 3 wickets for 25 runs in 2.3 overs. His accuracy and pace dismantled the England top order, ensuring India never lost control of the match. Alongside him, India’s spinners were also exceptional, with Chakravarthy and Bishnoi combining for 4 wickets.
Abhishek Sharma Shines with the Ball
Not only was Abhishek Sharma brilliant with the bat, but he also showed his skills with the ball. The left-arm spinner picked up two wickets, contributing to the team’s comprehensive win.
Player of the Match and Player of the Series Awards
Abhishek Sharma was rightly awarded the Player of the Match for his stunning 135, which single-handedly set up India’s huge total. The Player of the Series award, however, went to Varun Chakravarthy, who was instrumental in India’s bowling efforts throughout the series.
India Secures 4-1 Series Victory
India clinched the five-match T20 series with a 4-1 victory, after winning the final match by 150 runs. The dominant display with both bat and ball throughout the series reflected India’s strength and preparation heading into the upcoming ODI series.
India’s Preparation for Upcoming ODIs and Champions Trophy
The series victory was a perfect warm-up for India as they prepare for the upcoming One-Day Internationals, starting on February 6 in Nagpur. This ODI series will be followed by the much-anticipated Champions Trophy, set to take place in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19. With this dominant series win, India looks in great shape for the challenges ahead.
Key Takeaways
- Abhishek Sharma’s match-winning performance of 135 runs off 54 balls was the highlight of the game, leading India to a huge total of 247-9.
- England’s batting crumbled under pressure, with only Phil Salt managing a significant score (55) in the chase.
- India’s bowlers, led by Mohammed Shami (3 wickets) and Varun Chakravarthy (2 wickets), delivered an outstanding performance to bowl England out for 97.
- The final T20 match ended in a 150-run victory for India, securing a 4-1 series win.
- India now looks ahead to the ODI series and the Champions Trophy.
FAQs
1. Who was the Player of the Match in the 5th T20 between India and England?
Abhishek Sharma was named Player of the Match for his explosive knock of 135 runs off 54 balls.
2. How many sixes did Abhishek Sharma hit in his 135-run innings?
Abhishek Sharma hit 13 sixes in his 135-run innings, showcasing his aggressive batting style.
3. What was the final score of England in the fifth T20?
England was bowled out for 97 runs in their chase of 247 runs.
4. Who was awarded Player of the Series for the T20 series?
Varun Chakravarthy was named Player of the Series for his excellent performance with the ball throughout the series.
5. When does the India vs England ODI series begin?
The India vs England ODI series begins on February 6, 2025 in Nagpur.
