IND vs ENG 2nd ODI match result: Joe Root’s unbeaten 99 and Gus Atkinson’s all-round heroics power England to series-leveling win | Cricket News
A masterclass in chasing from veteran Joe Root and a clinical bowling display helped England bounce back in style, registering a comfortable four-wicket win over India in the second ODI on Thursday. The stunning victory leveled the three-match series 1-1, setting up a winner-takes-all blockbuster finale at Lord’s on Sunday.Electing to bowl first, England’s pace attack took advantage of the conditions to bundle India out for a modest 233 in 44 overs, triggering a spectacular mid-innings collapse.Earlier, India looked good for a commanding total, riding comfortably on 178 for 3 in 32 overs. Half-centuries from Virat Kohli (65 off 66 balls) and Shreyas Iyer (66 off 71 balls) laid a solid foundation, with the duo keeping the scoreboard ticking over with authoritative strokeplay.However, the England pacers fought back mercilessly. Led by Jofra Archer (3/47) and Gus Atkinson (3/50), the hosts staged a batting slide that saw India lose their last seven wickets for just 55 runs. The tail failed to wag under constant pressure, and India eventually folded with six overs not bowled.Chasing a modest 234, England’s top order faced some trying times against the moving ball and both openers fell within the first four overs with just eight runs on the board. Indian pacer Gurnoor Brar unleashed impressive fire, picking up 2-for 67 to keep the visitors in the hunt.But Joe Root stood like a rock. The former captain played with utmost composure, running the chase to perfection. As the wickets rolled around him, Root found a reliable partner in Will Jacks. The pair navigated a difficult period, putting together a crucial 72-run stand for the sixth wicket to firmly shift the momentum back in England’s favour.After Jacks departed for 30 for 44, it was Gus Atkinson who saw England home with Root. The duo put on a quick, unbroken 38-run partnership off just 25 deliveries. Atkinson played 23 not out from 16 balls, while Root, although stranded on a superb 99 not out from 133 balls, anchored the chase very well till the end.England overhauled the target to finish at 235 for 6, ending the game with 35 balls to spare. With the scales now balanced after India’s six-wicket win in Birmingham, the next decider at Lord’s promises to be an exciting affair.Short scores:India: 233 all out in 44 overs (Shreyas Iyer 66, Virat Kohli 65; Jofra Archer 3/47, Gus Atkinson 3/50)England: 235/6 in 44.1 overs (Joe Root 99*, Will Jacks 30; Gurnoor Brar 2/67)Result: England won by 4 wickets.
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