Sat Jan 25 23:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Tilak Varma’s Heroics Secure Thrilling India Win Over England in 2nd T20I
**Chennai:** India secured a thrilling two-wicket victory over England in the second T20I on Republic Day, thanks to a sensational unbeaten 72 from young Tilak Varma. Chasing a challenging 166, India slumped to 78/5, appearing on the verge of defeat. However, Varma orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, anchoring the chase with an impressive display of power hitting and composure. His unbeaten 72 (off 55 balls, including 4 fours and 5 sixes) along with a quickfire 26 from Shahbaz Ahmed guided India to victory with just two wickets remaining.
England, led by Jos Buttler’s 45, had earlier posted 165/9 in their 20 overs. Exceptional bowling from Axar Patel (2/32) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/38) restricted England’s innings. However, Brandon Carse’s 3/29 threatened India’s chase.
India’s innings started poorly, losing early wickets. Abhishek Sharma (12) and Sanju Samson (5) fell early to the pace of Reece Topley and Olly Stone. However, Surya Kumar Yadav and Tilak Varma staged a brief recovery before Yadav’s dismissal triggered another collapse. With wickets tumbling around him, Varma remained steadfast, forming a crucial partnership with Ahmed before Ahmed’s dismissal. Despite the pressure, Varma held his nerve and guided India to victory.
The win gives India a 2-0 lead in the five-match series, with Varma being named Man of the Match for his match-winning knock. The series continues.
First Piper 