England outclass India in series decider, win ODI series 2-1

England clinched the three-match ODI series 2-1 after defeating India by 27 runs in the series decider at Lord’s. Chasing a daunting target of 388, India finished on 360/7 in their 50 overs despite a spirited batting effort.

Rohit Sharma led India’s fightback with a brilliant 138 at the top of the order. Captain Shubman Gill scored 77, while Virat Kohli contributed 74. Ishan Kishan made 14, and Shreyas Iyer was dismissed for a duck. Gurnoor Brar remained unbeaten on 18, while Arshdeep Singh added an unbeaten 15.

For England, Sam Curran starred with the ball, taking four wickets. Jofra Archer, Jacob Bethell, and Adil Rashid claimed one wicket each. Earlier, England won the toss and chose to bat, posting a formidable 387/3 in 50 overs.

Opener Ben Duckett was the standout performer, scoring a superb 141. Jacob Bethell and Joe Root both made 74, while captain Harry Brook scored 14. Jos Buttler provided a late flourish with an unbeaten 41. For India, Prasidh Krishna picked up two wickets, while Prince Yadav claimed one.

Earlier, England openers Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell put together a record-breaking opening partnership against India in the third and series-deciding ODI at Lord’s.

The pair added 192 runs for the first wicket, setting the highest opening partnership by England against India in ODI cricket, according to media reports.

After England won the toss and chose to bat, England’s decision paid off as the two openers dominated the Indian bowling attack from the outset.

Bethell played an aggressive knock of 91 but fell short of a century after being dismissed by Prasidh Krishna. Duckett, however, carried on his superb form, scoring his fourth ODI century and laying a solid foundation for England’s innings.

The 192-run stand at Lord’s is not only England’s highest opening partnership against India in ODIs but also one of the highest partnerships for any wicket at the historic venue.

Duckett went on to score a brilliant 141 off 121 balls, smashing 18 fours and one six. England continued to pile on the runs, reaching 304 in 44 overs.