Published By: Sanchari Das

IND vs. ENG T20I: When Rajkot Witnessed India’s T20I Brilliance One Last Time

India’s unbeaten home T20I streak continued in style at Rajkot, where Suryakumar Yadav’s dazzling ton and Arshdeep Singh’s spell dismantled Sri Lanka

India is set to host England in the third T20I of the series at Rajkot’s Niranjan Shah Cricket Stadium on January 28. Leading 2-0, India aims to wrap up the series with a clean sweep. Meanwhile, England will look to stay alive by securing a crucial win. Before this high-stakes encounter, let’s look back at India’s last T20I match at this venue, where they delivered a stunning performance against Sri Lanka.

A commanding win to seal the series

On January 7, 2023, Rajkot witnessed a spectacular match as India faced Sri Lanka in the final T20I of the series. India secured a convincing 91-run victory, clinching the series 2-1. The game was defined by stellar performances, particularly from Suryakumar Yadav and the Indian bowlers, who quickly dismantled Sri Lanka.

India’s explosive batting

Batting first, India set a mammoth target of 229 runs. The innings began with an early setback as Ishan Kishan fell in the first over. However, Shubman Gill steadied the ship with 46 off 36 balls. Rahul Tripathi’s fiery 35 off just 16 balls gave India a much-needed boost during the powerplay. The show's real star was Suryakumar Yadav, who smashed an unbeaten 112 off 51 deliveries. With seven fours and nine sixes, Yadav’s blistering knock propelled India to a commanding total of 228/5.

Tripathi lights up the powerplay

Rahul Tripathi’s knock was crucial in shifting momentum early in the innings. Despite a tricky start on a tacky pitch, he counterattacked brilliantly. Tripathi took on Sri Lanka’s bowlers, dismantling Dilshan Madushanka and Maheesh Theekshana. Sweeping and driving with precision, he added 35 runs in just 16 balls, lifting India to 52/2 by the end of the powerplay. His fearless batting exemplified his selfless intent, making a strong statement in only his second international game.

Sri Lanka’s faltering chase

Sri Lanka began their chase with hope, reaching 50/2 in the powerplay. Kusal Mendis, in good touch, scored 23 off 15 balls, and Dhananjaya de Silva added 22 off 14. However, the steep required run rate forced risky shots, leading to frequent dismissals. Captain Dasun Shanaka tried to steady the innings with 23 off 17 balls, but his efforts weren’t enough. The visitors were eventually bowled out for 137 in just 16.4 overs, falling short by 91 runs.

Indian bowlers dominate

India’s bowlers were relentless, capitalising on the mounting pressure. Arshdeep Singh led the attack, claiming 3/20 in just 2.4 overs. Axar Patel was instrumental in breaking Sri Lanka’s momentum, dismissing Kusal Mendis early. Hardik Pandya and Umran Malik took two wickets each, while Yuzvendra Chahal and Axar contributed one each. The disciplined bowling effort ensured that Sri Lanka never found their footing, wrapping up the game with 20 balls to spare.

Suryakumar’s unstoppable century

Suryakumar Yadav’s third T20I century was a masterclass in modern batting. Displaying his signature 360-degree shots, he wowed the crowd with drives over extra cover, ramps over fine leg, and inventive flicks over square leg. His century was built on pure aggression and precision, coming at a strike rate of 219.60. He was deservingly named Player of the Match for his spectacular century.

This emphatic victory extended India’s unbeaten streak in the T20I bilateral series at home to 11, with just one series ending in a draw. As India gears up to face England at the same venue, fans are eager to see if another thrilling performance awaits.