India Dominates England, Secures Series Whitewash with 142-Run Victory

India showcased a commanding performance in the 3rd ODI against England, securing a 142-run victory and sealing a 3-0 series whitewash. England had won the toss once again and opted to bowl, expecting dew to play a role in the second innings. However, their plan backfired as India's batting lineup fired on all cylinders.

Man of the Match - Shubman Gill (112 runs)

Man of the Series - Shubman Gill 259 runs, average 86.33

India started their innings on a shaky note, losing skipper Rohit Sharma early. But Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill steadied the innings, building a strong partnership. Kohli, looking in fine touch, played some delightful strokes, including a trademark backfoot punch and sweeps against the spinners, bringing back memories of his prime. He reached his 73rd ODI half-century but fell short of a big score, dismissed by Adil Rashid, continuing his struggles against the leg-spinner.

Gill, on the other hand, picked up pace after his fifty, finding solid support from Shreyas Iyer. He went on to score his 7th ODI century, becoming the first Indian and only the fifth player overall to score centuries in all three formats at a single venue. Rashid finally cut short his superb 112, but by that time, India had gained momentum. Iyer continued the charge, scoring 78, while KL Rahul added a quick 40 off 29 balls. Cameos from Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Harshit Rana helped India post a formidable total of 356 in 50 overs.

England's chase started well, with Ben Duckett timing the ball beautifully and finding regular boundaries. However, Arshdeep Singh’s clever use of slower deliveries turned the game around, dismissing both openers within two overs. Tom Banton kept England’s hopes alive with aggressive stroke play, but Kuldeep Yadav’s brilliant bowling saw him dismissed for 38. England’s batting lineup collapsed soon after, with Joe Root, Jos Buttler, and Harry Brook failing to make an impact.

Despite a fighting knock from Gus Atkinson, who scored 38 off just 19 balls, England never looked in control. With wickets falling at regular intervals, they eventually folded, handing India a comfortable win. Arshdeep, Kuldeep, and the rest of the Indian bowling attack executed their plans perfectly to wrap up the match convincingly.

This dominant performance not only secured a clean sweep for India but also highlighted their readiness for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. On the other hand, England faces serious concerns in both their batting and bowling departments, with plenty of work to do before their next big tournament.

Photo Credits - BCCI