Fri Jan 31 15:40:00 UTC 2025: ## England’s Aggressive Batting Wins Despite Setbacks in T20 Series Against India

**Pune, India** – England’s aggressive batting strategy, dubbed “Bazball,” secured them a crucial win in the third T20I against India, despite a middle-order collapse. Despite losing wickets after a strong start, England’s ability to hit sixes and maintain a high scoring rate allowed them to overcome a shaky innings and win by 26 runs.

Opener Ben Duckett defended the team’s approach, emphasizing their commitment to aggressive play even when wickets fall. He cited Liam Livingstone’s explosive 24-ball 43, including five sixes, as a prime example of their strategy. Duckett himself admitted to missing an opportunity for a six, but insisted that the team’s philosophy isn’t about playing cautiously. “This side isn’t about reining it in,” he stated.

England’s win leaves the five-match series at 2-1 in India’s favor going into the fourth match on Friday. While acknowledging that their approach sometimes doesn’t work, Duckett praised the team’s commitment to head coach Brendon McCullum’s philosophy of entertaining, aggressive cricket.

The match saw several key performances. Adil Rashid excelled with figures of 1 for 15, while India’s Varun Chakravarthy continued his strong series, taking 10 wickets in three matches.

Few changes are expected for England’s lineup in Pune, with Jacob Bethell potentially replacing Jamie Smith due to injury. India is likely to field Varun Chakravarthy again, given his consistent success against England.

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