India looked set for a commanding total after a flying start but ultimately fell short as England produced a composed chase to win the second T20I by four wickets and seize a 1-0 lead in the series.
Opting to bat first, India raced to 50 for no loss in the powerplay. Abhishek Sharma once again provided the early fireworks with a rapid 43 off just 24 balls, setting an aggressive tone. Ishan Kishan steadied the ship with a responsible 49, while skipper Shreyas Iyer chipped in with a brisk 37 off 22.
Tilak Varma’s explosive 24 off 11 gave the innings a late surge, but India could only post 190 for 7 — a score that appeared slightly below par on a good batting surface.
England’s bowlers kept things in check effectively. Sam Curran was the pick of the attack with impressive figures of 3 for 33, while Will Jacks bowled with excellent economy to restrict the middle order.
The chase got off to a shocking start as Arshdeep Singh struck twice in the very first over, removing both openers. However, Harry Brook injected momentum with a counter-attacking knock before India fought back to dismiss him. That brought Jacob Bethell to the crease, and the left-hander produced a match-winning performance, remaining unbeaten on a superb 76 off 46 balls.
Alongside Tom Banton, Bethell built a crucial partnership that kept England firmly in control. The duo steered the visitors deep into the chase, with Bethell finishing the job in the 19th over to spark celebrations in the English camp.
The defeat extends India’s worrying run under new captain Shreyas Iyer, raising questions over bowling combinations and execution in crucial moments.
With the series now in England’s favour, all eyes turn to Trent Bridge for the third T20I, where India will be desperate to level the scores and regain momentum ahead of the remaining fixtures.
