India secured a commanding 24-run victory over England in the second T20 international in Bristol, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. A combination of sharp bowling and aggressive middle-order batting once again exposed England’s vulnerabilities, leaving the hosts with much to ponder ahead of the final match at the Oval.
Batting first, India posted a formidable 181 for 4, recovering well from a shaky powerplay that saw the loss of three wickets, including Smriti Mandhana and returning captain Harmanpreet Kaur. The acceleration came through standout innings from Jemimah Rodrigues and Amanjot Kaur, both of whom struck half-centuries. Rodrigues, a familiar face in English domestic competitions, displayed a range of inventive strokes, including ramp shots off Lauren Filer, while Amanjot showcased her spin-hitting ability with ease in her maiden international fifty.
Despite a few early breakthroughs for England’s quicks – Filer, Lauren Bell, and Emily Arlott each took a wicket – India’s middle-order capitalised in the latter stages. Richa Ghosh chipped in with a brisk 32 off 20 balls, including some powerful hitting and a lucky escape when Tammy Beaumont spilled a chance at square leg.
England’s response lacked fluency, especially after losing key wickets early. Danni Wyatt-Hodge’s lean run continued as she fell for just one, and Nat Sciver-Brunt, who missed most of India’s innings due to a hip concern, returned to bat but looked uncomfortable, scoring only 13 off 10 balls. Her fitness remains a concern ahead of the third match.
Tammy Beaumont briefly revived England’s hopes with her first T20I half-century since 2021. Promoted to a new role in the absence of Heather Knight, she showed glimpses of innovation and intent, but her run-out in the 12th over stifled England’s chase. Though Sophie Ecclestone produced a late cameo of 35 and was run out off the final delivery, the task had long slipped out of reach.
India’s fielding and bowling showed significant discipline, with Radha Yadav and Harmanpreet contributing key moments in the field. Harmanpreet’s diving catch to remove Sciver-Brunt early summed up a spirited performance. The result reflected India’s growing depth and confidence, with players like Amanjot seizing their chances on the big stage.
As India celebrated another emphatic win, England were left to regroup. While Beaumont pointed to moments of promise, it’s clear that consistency and sharper execution will be needed to avoid a whitewash in the final match.
