Tue Jan 28 19:42:05 UTC 2025: ## India Loses Third T20 Against England, But Retains Series Lead
**Rajkot, India:** India suffered a 26-run defeat against England in the third T20I of their five-match series at the Nirjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on Tuesday. Despite the loss, the world’s number one T20I team maintains a 2-1 lead in the series.
Winning the toss and electing to bowl first, India restricted England to 171/9 in their 20 overs. Varun Chakravarthy was the pick of the Indian bowlers, taking a magnificent 5 wickets for 24 runs. Hardik Pandya also contributed with two wickets. Ben Duckett top-scored for England with a 51-run knock, while Liam Livingstone provided a quickfire 43.
In response, India’s chase faltered, managing only 145/9. Hardik Pandya top-scored with 40 runs, but the rest of the batting line-up failed to provide sufficient support. India lost wickets at regular intervals, with Jamie Overton claiming 3 wickets for 24 runs.
While India lost the match, their earlier victories in Kolkata and Chennai ensure they hold the series advantage heading into the remaining two matches. The fourth T20I is scheduled for January 31st.
First Piper 