
India Clinches Series with Controversial Win Over England in 4th T20I
What a game we witnessed in Pune! India sealed the five-match T20I series against England with a thrilling 15-run victory in the fourth match, taking an unassailable 3-1 lead. But this win didn’t come without its share of controversy. England captain Jos Buttler openly expressed his frustration over India’s use of a concussion substitute, questioning whether it was a genuine like-for-like replacement.
Let’s rewind to the beginning. England had a dream start, thanks to Saqib Mahmood’s sensational first over. He removed Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma in consecutive deliveries and nearly completed a hat-trick, leaving India reeling at 12/3. However, Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube turned the game around with fighting half-centuries. Dube, who later suffered a blow to the helmet, was replaced by Harshit Rana—a decision that stirred controversy.
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Dube’s concussion replacement meant India brought in Rana, a genuine fast bowler, in place of an all-rounder. The substitution proved to be a game-changer as Rana dismissed key English batters at crucial moments, including Jamie Overton, who was threatening to take the game deep. Buttler didn’t hold back in his post-match comments, stating, “It’s not a like-for-like replacement. Either Shivam Dube has put on about 25mph with the ball, or Harshit has really improved his batting.”
England’s chase of 182 started off well, with Ben Duckett’s explosive 39 off just 19 balls giving them a solid foundation. But India fought back through Ravi Bishnoi, who took three wickets, and Varun Chakravarthy, who added two crucial breakthroughs. Harry Brook’s blistering 51 off 26 balls kept England in the hunt, but Rana’s late strikes ensured India had the final say.
With this win, India has wrapped up the series before the final game. The debate over the concussion substitution will continue, but one thing is clear—India’s all-round performance, particularly with the ball in the death overs, secured a well-fought victory. Now, all eyes are on the final match in Mumbai, where England will look to salvage some pride.
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