India enjoyed a spectacular display at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on February 2, 2025. The Men in Blue clinched the fifth and final T20 International against England. They secured a 4-1 series victory.
The match was highlighted by a stellar performance from opener Abhishek Sharma. His explosive 135 off just 54 balls propelled India to a formidable total of 247 for nine. England, in response, faltered, culminating in their heaviest T20 defeat to date. They were bowled out for a mere 97 runs, handing India a resounding 150-run win.
Abhishek Sharma's Record-Breaking Innings
Winning the toss, England's captain, Jos Buttler, opted to field. The decision soon backfired as Abhishek Sharma unleashed a batting onslaught. His innings, laced with 13 sixes and seven fours, saw him reach his half-century in just 17 balls. He continued his aggressive approach, bringing up his century off 37 deliveries. The result narrowly missed Rohit Sharma's record for the fastest T20I century by an Indian, which stands at 35 balls.
Abhishek's dominance was evident as he dismantled both pace and spin attacks. He formed a crucial 115-run partnership for the second wicket with Tilak Varma, who contributed 24 runs off 15 balls. This partnership laid a solid foundation for India's imposing total. Despite wickets falling at regular intervals in the latter ages, Sharma's relentless assault ensured India posted their fourth-highest T20I total.
Chasing a daunting target of 248, England needed a strong start. Opener Phil Salt provided a glimmer of hope with a brisk 55 off 23 balls, showing aggressive intent. Yet, his efforts lacked support from the other end as England's batting lineup crumbled under pressure.
Mohammed Shami claimed three wickets for 25 runs. He led the rest of the bowlers that helped to dismantle the opposition. Spinners Varun Chakravarthy and Shivam Dube chipped in with two wickets. Plus, Sharma capped his memorable day by taking two wickets for just three runs in his solitary over.
England's innings concluded at 97 all out in just 10.3 overs. This result marked their lowest total in the series and the most significant defeat in T20I history. They suffered from the lack of substantial partnerships and the inability. India's disciplined bowling attack was evident as wickets tumbled at regular intervals.
England's Brendon McCullum emphasized the need for a more aggressive approach against spin bowling. He acknowledged the challenge posed by India's spinners throughout the series. He also highlighted the importance of players consistently applying pressure. Finally, he mentioned the need to evolve their game plans to counter such threats.
India's head coach, Gautam Gambhir, praised the team's high-risk strategy in T20 cricket. This approach adds to low scores and aims to achieve totals in the range of 250-260, reflecting the team's fearless mindset.
After the T20I series, both teams now focus on the upcoming three-match One Day International (ODI) series. It will commence on February 6 at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur.
England will address the shortcomings exposed during the T20 series. At the same time, India will aim to carry on their momentum and continue their dominance in the limited-overs format.
The series will also serve as a platform for both teams to fine-tune their strategies and assess player form ahead of the Champions Trophy. The tournament begins on February 20 in Dubai. Joe Root for England and India's Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah will add depth and balance to the respective squads as they return to the pitch.
As the cricketing action continues, fans can look forward to a competitive ODI series. Both teams would strive to assert their supremacy. They will also try to build more confidence before the upcoming international fixtures.