Synopsis
Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav praised his team's determination and constructive mindset after a thrilling 15-run win against England in the third T20I. This victory clinched the five-match series 3-1 in India's favor, showcasing the team's resilience in challenging situations.Key Takeaways
- Suryakumar Yadav praises team resilience.
- India wins the series against England.
- Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube crucial in the innings.
- Harshit Rana shines on debut with 3 wickets.
- Excitement builds for the final match at Wankhede Stadium.
Pune, Jan 31 (NationPress) Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav commended his team's resilience and positive approach after India clinched a 15-run victory in the third T20I against England at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium. This win secured the five-match series with a score of 3-1 in favor of India.
"An outstanding effort from everyone on the field. The crowd was fantastic from start to finish, always supporting us. We were determined not to falter after being at 12/3, and the boys understood the style of cricket we aimed to play," said Yadav after the match.
India's innings faced an early setback due to Saqib Mahmood’s record-setting triple-wicket maiden, leaving the hosts at 12/3 within two overs. However, Yadav highlighted his team's unyielding spirit, especially the way Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube tackled the challenge. The pair built an impressive 88-run partnership, both scoring 53 runs, which helped India reach a total of 181/9.
"Three wickets in a single over was challenging for us. Yet, the way they batted and the positive attitude they displayed in the middle was commendable. Hardik and Dube's experience was evident. We have emphasized expressing ourselves and playing as we do in the nets," said Surya.
England began their chase aggressively, with openers Phil Salt and Ben Duckett taking on India's seamers during the power-play. Duckett, in particular, was in phenomenal form, scoring 39 off just 19 balls. England appeared well positioned at 62/0 after six overs.
However, India's bowlers quickly turned the match around. Ravi Bishnoi took down Duckett on the last ball of the power-play, followed by Axar Patel claiming the vital wicket of Salt. Bishnoi struck again, getting Buttler for just 2 runs, leaving England at 67/3 in the eighth over.
Yadav's faith in his team's strategy was clear when he discussed the crucial phase post-powerplay. "I was confident that between 7-10 overs, we could seize control of the game, and that’s exactly what transpired. We took a few wickets and maintained our grip on the match."
Despite challenges, Harry Brook of England countered, scoring a quick-fire fifty off 26 balls, keeping the visitors in contention. However, just as England seemed to regain momentum, Varun Chakravarthy made a significant impact, dismissing Brook for 51 and Brydon Carse shortly after, putting England in a tough spot.
Harshit Rana, making his T20I debut as a concussion substitute, made an immediate impact. He took down Liam Livingstone first, then continued to impress by removing Jacob Bethell and Jamie Overton in the final over, finishing with figures of 3/33 that were crucial to India's triumph.
Rana's performance earned special recognition from his captain. Stepping in for Shivam Dube, who was unable to continue, Rana delivered a stellar performance, taking three wickets on his debut and swinging the match in India's favor. "After drinks, when Shivam Dube couldn’t return, Harshit Rana came in as the third seamer and truly delivered for us. That was remarkable."
Looking ahead to the final T20I at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Yadav expressed optimism, anticipating an exciting match. "Expect lots of fireworks, I’m sure."
