In a thrilling display of cricket, India secured a place in the T20 World Cup final for the first time in 10 years by crushing England by 68 runs in the semi-final held in Guyana. The stellar performance by spinners Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav was instrumental in dismantling the English batting lineup, marking a triumphant return to the final for the Indian team, which last appeared in 2014.
A Decisive Spin Attack
England, chasing a target of 172 runs, got off to a rapid start with Jos Buttler leading the charge. However, the introduction of spin turned the tide in India's favor. Axar Patel struck in his first over, removing the dangerous Buttler for 23. Following this, Philip Salt was bowled by Jasprit Bumrah, leaving England reeling.
The Indian spinners then took complete control. Axar dismissed Jonny Bairstow and Moeen Ali in consecutive overs, while Kuldeep Yadav trapped Sam Curran lbw. Harry Brook's brief resistance ended with a reverse sweep, leading to his dismissal by Kuldeep, who also took down Chris Jordan. The collapse continued with Livingstone run out by Axar’s quick thinking and Adil Rashid by a direct hit from Suryakumar Yadav. England's innings folded at 103, with Kuldeep and Axar each taking three wickets.
Indian Batting Resilience
Earlier, rain threatened to disrupt the match but eventually allowed a full game. After opting to bowl first, England made an early breakthrough by dismissing Virat Kohli. Rohit Sharma, however, stabilized the innings, scoring a crucial half-century. Despite losing Rishabh Pant early, India managed 46 runs in the powerplay.
Rain interrupted the proceedings at 65 for 2 in eight overs. Post-resumption, Rohit and Suryakumar struggled initially but regained momentum with a series of boundaries. Rohit reached his fifty with a six off Sam Curran, marking his 50th T20 World Cup six. He was eventually bowled for 57 by Adil Rashid. Suryakumar added 47 before falling to Jordan’s catch. Contributions from Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, along with Axar Patel’s late six, pushed India to 171 for 7.
Looking Ahead
India’s comprehensive victory sets up a final clash with South Africa, who will be making their first appearance in the T20 World Cup final. The Indian team, champions in 2007, will aim to reclaim the title in what promises to be an exciting finale.
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