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India’s young batting sensation, Tilak Varma, played a match-winning knock of 72 not out to guide India to a thrilling two-wicket victory over England on Saturday, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match Twenty20 International series. India successfully chased down England’s competitive total of 165-9 with four balls to spare, thanks to Varma’s brilliant effort.
England set a challenging target after India won the toss and opted to bowl. Despite early breakthroughs by India, including Arshdeep Singh dismissing Phil Salt in the first over and Washington Sundar’s key dismissal of Ben Duckett, England looked to be in control. Jos Buttler led the charge with a quick-fire 45 off 30 balls before falling to Axar Patel’s brilliant delivery. England’s middle-order contributions came from debutant Jamie Smith (22) and Brydon Carse (31 off 17 balls), but a run-out in the 17th over and late dismissals left them struggling to reach 165.
India’s chase started poorly, with both openers, Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, dismissed cheaply. Sharma was trapped lbw for 12, and Samson was caught by Carse for just five. India was reeling at 78-5, but Varma’s resilience turned the tide. Along with Washington Sundar (26) and some quick boundaries from Suryakumar Yadav (12), Varma built partnerships to bring India closer to the target.
When Liam Livingstone dismissed Axar Patel, leaving India at 126-7, England’s hopes were high. However, Varma’s calm composure and strategic hitting saw India close in on the target. In the final over, with six runs needed, Varma sealed the win with a drive through the covers, finishing on 72 not out.
England’s bowlers struggled with Brydon Carse picking up three wickets, but Jofra Archer’s expensive spell of 60 runs from four overs did not help England’s cause. Varma’s heroics ensured India’s victory, following their seven-wicket win in the first T20I in Kolkata.
The third match of the series will take place in Rajkot on Tuesday, with India looking to extend their lead and claim the series.
