Tue Jan 28 21:46:33 UTC 2025: ## England Claws Back Win in Rajkot Thriller, Defeating India by 26 Runs

**Rajkot, India** – England snatched a crucial victory over India in the third and final T20I at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, winning by 26 runs to avoid a series whitewash. The win leaves the series at 2-1 in India’s favour.

India, having won the toss and elected to bowl, saw their bowlers initially stifle England’s batting lineup. Varun Chakravarthy was the star performer with a five-wicket haul, restricting the visitors to a below-par 171/9. Ben Duckett top-scored for England with 51, while Liam Livingstone provided a late flurry of runs with a 43-run knock.

India’s chase faltered despite a valiant 40 from Hardik Pandya. The Indian batting order struggled against England’s disciplined bowling attack, with several wickets falling at regular intervals. Jofra Archer and Jamie Overton were particularly effective, taking crucial wickets in the middle order. Despite Pandya’s efforts, India fell short of the target, finishing on 145/9.

Mohammad Shami, making his return to the Indian national team after a 14-month absence, contributed a significant six but was ultimately dismissed for 7.

The match saw several turning points, including an impactful spell from Chakravarthy and crucial catches by Jos Buttler and Dhruv Jurel. England’s disciplined bowling and effective death bowling proved to be the deciding factor in their win. The Rajkot pitch, expected to be favourable to pace, did see some impact from the England quicks, though spin ultimately played a more significant role.

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