Pune, India - India clinched victory over England by 15 runs in the fourth T20I at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium on January 31, 2025, marking their third win of the series and securing an unassailable 3-1 lead. The thrilling match was filled with dramatic turns as both teams fought hard for control, but it was India’s cricketers who shone brightest when it mattered most.
After winning the toss, England opted to field first, and the decision initially paid dividends as they rapidly reduced India to 12 runs with the loss of three wickets. Saqib Mahmood made his mark, taking the three wickets within the first two overs, dismissing Sanju Samson, Tilak Varma, and Suryakumar Yadav, which left India reeling early on.
Despite the early setbacks, India managed to turn the tide thanks to the efforts of Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, both of whom scored half-centuries. Dube's performance included significant boundaries against England's bowlers, and when he joined forces with Hardik, the duo assembled a remarkable 87-run partnership. Hardik Pandya, needing to play patiently before launching an offensive, ended with 53 runs from 30 balls, showcasing his explosive capabilities, with the partnership proving pivotal.
After batting for 20 overs, India finished at 181/9, with notable performances from Abhishek Sharma and Rinku Singh contributing 29 and 30 runs, respectively. It showcased India’s depth, with players stepping up during difficult phases when top order collapses threatened to derail their innings.
England’s response began promisingly, as Ben Duckett and Phil Salt built momentum with brisk scoring, smashing 62 runs within the powerplay. But disaster struck as India’s bowlers rallied, undermining England's strong start. Varun Chakravarthy and Ravi Bishnoi quickly turned the match around, taking key wickets to place England on the back foot.
Harry Brook, who exhibited impressive batting skills by scoring 51 runs off 26 balls, provided hope for the visitors with his explosive display. But his dismissal to Varun Chakravarthy triggered another wave of wickets fall for England, eventually leading to their collapse. Harshit Rana, who made headlines as the concussion substitute for Dube, took full advantage of the opportunity and secured three wickets, proving integral to India's win.
England's captain Jos Buttler commented on the match's turning points, stating, "We started beautifully, then lost the way." His frustration was evident as he analyzed the lost position and the costly mistakes made along the way. Buttler reflected on how their quick losses at key moments may have cost them the match, saying he was disappointed with their performances post-powerplay.
Adding to the post-match drama, Buttler raised concerns about the validity of India's concussion substitute, which he claimed did not align with the typical guidelines for replacements. “It’s not a like-for-like replacement,” he contended. This issue ignited debates about the regulations surrounding concussion protocols within the sport.
India’s captain, Suryakumar Yadav chimed in by applauding his team’s fighting spirit throughout the innings. "Top effort from everyone on the field," Yadav stated, reflecting the collective morale and the team's determination to overcome adversity.
Despite the loss, England managed to keep their spirits up, with focus now shifting to the final T20I and the upcoming ODI series. The squad will have to regroup and strategize effectively if they hope to improve their fortunes after this loss.
With their 15-run victory, India has established dominance heading toward the final match, creating significant momentum as they prepare for the second phase of the tour with 50-over contests. For England, this match became not only about the numbers but served as stark reminder of necessary reflections and modifications needed for their approach moving forward.
The series has proven competitive, but India’s adaptability and resolve stood out, fostering optimism among fans as they look forward to the decisive match on February 2.