Fri Jan 24 09:07:08 UTC 2025: ## Archer Blames Luck as India Wins First T20 Against England

**Kolkata, India:** India defeated England by 7 wickets in the first T20I of their five-match series in Kolkata. However, England fast bowler Jofra Archer attributed India’s victory to sheer luck.

Despite taking 2 wickets for 21 runs in his four overs, Archer felt England’s performance was hampered by dropped catches and India’s fortunate batting. He suggested that had England held onto those catches, India’s score could have been significantly lower.

“I think the conditions in Kolkata suited our bowling, and our bowlers bowled well, but the Indian batsmen were very lucky,” Archer stated post-match. He emphasized the importance of maintaining morale despite the loss, acknowledging the challenges of bowling in India, particularly referencing the intensity of the IPL.

While admitting that early wickets could have swung the match in England’s favor, Archer ultimately attributed the loss to fortune rather than strategic shortcomings. The second T20I of the series will take place in Chennai on Saturday, marking the first time England and India will contest a T20 match in the city. India has a mixed record in Chennai, having won one and lost one previous T20I.

**(Note: The final paragraph about Indian students and Donald Trump’s threats is unrelated to the India-England cricket match and has been omitted from this news article.)**

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