Tue Jan 28 19:42:09 UTC 2025: ## India Stumbles in Third T20 Against England; Sanju Samson’s Poor Run Continues
Rajkot, India – India suffered a 26-run defeat against England in the third T20I at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot. A disappointing batting performance, highlighted by the early dismissal of Sanju Samson for just 3 runs, contributed significantly to India’s loss. This marks the third consecutive time Samson has been dismissed by Jofra Archer.
Samson’s poor form was compounded by the quick dismissals of Abhishek Sharma (24) and Suryakumar Yadav (14), leaving India struggling at 51/3 at the end of the powerplay. Abhishek Sharma, despite hitting five boundaries, was caught by Archer off the bowling of Brydon Carse. Suryakumar Yadav was caught by Salt off the bowling of Mark Wood. Only Hardik Pandya showed any significant resistance.
Earlier, England, after winning the toss and electing to bat first, were bowled out for 172 thanks to a stunning five-wicket haul by Varun Chakravarthy (24 runs in 4 overs). Ben Duckett (51) and Liam Livingstone (43) were the top scorers for England. However, England’s middle order collapsed after a strong start, with several batsmen failing to reach double figures. A spectacular catch by Sanju Samson dismissed Jos Buttler, although a review was needed to confirm the dismissal.
India’s bowling attack, despite Chakravarthy’s impressive performance, failed to contain England’s early momentum. Mohammed Shami, making his return to the Indian team after the ODI World Cup final, conceded 25 runs in three overs without taking a wicket. The article also mentions the inclusion of Mohammed Shami in place of Arshdeep Singh in the Indian team.
First Piper 