India secured a 2-0 series victory against England with a four-wicket win in the second ODI at Barabati Stadium. The match was filled with exciting performances, with both teams showcasing their strengths.
Batting first, England put up a strong total of 304 runs. Joe Root (69) and Ben Duckett (65) played crucial knocks, while Jonny Bairstow contributed 45 runs. However, India’s bowlers, especially Ravindra Jadeja (3/35), kept England from crossing the 320 mark. Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav also took key wickets to control the middle overs.
Chasing 305, India got off to a solid start with Shubman Gill scoring 60 runs. The real match-winner was captain Rohit Sharma, who smashed 119 off 90 balls, his 32nd ODI century. He played a fearless innings, taking on England’s bowlers with ease. Axar Patel’s unbeaten 41 ensured India crossed the finish line comfortably, reaching 308/6 in 44.3 overs.
With this win, India has already won the series with one match remaining. Rohit’s return to form is a great boost for the team ahead of the Champions Trophy. The third and final ODI will be played on February 12, where England will look to avoid a whitewash.
