England Suffers First Women’s T20I Defeat at Bristol

BRISTOL: In a comprehensive display of skill, the Indian Women’s team triumphed over England Women by 24 runs in the second T20I held at the county ground on Tuesday. This defeat marks the first-ever loss for England Women in a T20I match at this venue.

After being put in to bat, India encountered early setbacks, losing their opening batters, Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana, during the PowerPlay overs.

Captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who returned to the team after a one-match absence, also had a brief stay at the crease, leaving India in a difficult position at 52/3. However, a determined partnership between Jemimah Rodrigues and Amanjot Kaur stabilized the innings.

The duo contributed 93 runs for the fourth wicket, providing stability and establishing a solid base for a strong finish. Rodrigues exhibited composure in her innings, while Amanjot achieved her first T20I half-century, remaining not out until the end. Their combined efforts propelled India to a competitive total of 181/4 in their 20 overs.

In response, England faced early difficulties, losing a wicket in the very first over. Tammy Beaumont resisted with a fluid 52, marking her first T20I half-century since 2022, but the hosts were unable to forge substantial partnerships.

The Indian bowlers demonstrated discipline throughout the innings. Sree Charani made a significant impact by claiming two wickets in a single over, while Deepti Sharma and Amanjot Kaur each contributed with one wicket.

England’s chase was further hampered by three run-outs, ultimately restricting the home side to 157/7 in their allotted 20 overs.

This victory not only secures a 2-0 lead for India in the series but also brings an end to England’s undefeated record in women’s T20Is at Bristol. The series will continue with the third T20I on July fourth.