India sealed a memorable 2-1 series victory over England with a hard-fought 13-run win in the third and final ODI at Chester-le-Street. A brilliant century from Harmanpreet Kaur set up a formidable total of 318 for 5, which proved just beyond England’s reach despite a valiant effort in the chase.
England’s reply began on shaky ground as they slipped to 8 for 2. However, Nat Sciver-Brunt and Emma Lamb mounted an impressive recovery with a 162-run stand for the third wicket, steering their team back into contention. Lamb fell for a well-made 68, while Sciver-Brunt fell agonizingly short of a century, caught behind for 98. With contributions from Sophia Dunkley, Charlie Dean and Alice Davidson-Richards, England stayed in the hunt, but the asking rate climbed steeply.
India’s fielding efforts, including two sharp catches by Jemimah Rodrigues at long-on, were crucial in the closing stages. Seamer Kranti Goud was the standout bowler, claiming 6 for 52 and sealing the contest as England were bowled out for 305 with one over remaining.
Kaur’s century was the cornerstone of India’s innings, marking her seventh ODI hundred. Having struggled for runs earlier in the tour, she delivered under pressure, guiding India through the middle overs before accelerating in the final stages. India’s late flourish, adding 120 runs in the last 10 overs, proved decisive.
Sophie Ecclestone was England’s standout performer with the ball, finishing with exceptional figures of 1 for 28 from her 10 overs, including a wicket maiden that removed Smriti Mandhana. However, once her spell ended in the 34th over, India capitalized on England’s second-string bowling options.
England’s failure to use the Decision Review System effectively cost them crucial breakthroughs, including missed chances against both Kaur and Harleen Deol. The incident highlighted the need for clearer on-field communication about referrals.
Despite the defeat, England can take heart from their resilient batting display and middle-order contributions, which showed the positive impact of coach Charlotte Edwards’ emphasis on intelligent, calculated cricket. With the Women’s World Cup just 10 weeks away, England will look to build on these lessons, while India head into the tournament buoyed by this series triumph.
