Cuttack: Skipper Rohit Sharma's sublime 32nd ODI century powered India to a thrilling four-wicket victory over England in the second ODI at Barabati Stadium, as the hosts successfully chased down a 305-run target in just 44.3 overs.
Rohit, who has been out of form, hammered 119 off 90 balls, laced with 12 boundaries and seven sixes, at a blistering strike rate of 132.22. His fluent strokeplay provided India with a commanding start alongside Shubman Gill, who contributed a well-made 60 before falling to Jamie Overton.
This century marked Rohit's return to top form, silencing critics and further solidifying his stature as one of India's most dependable batsmen. Having struggled in past matches, the star batsman was under scrutiny, with media reports speculating about his potential retirement. However, his commanding knock dispelled doubts and reaffirmed his place at the pinnacle of Indian cricket.
However, Virat Kohli failed to make an impact, departing for just 5 after edging an Adil Rashid delivery to the keeper. Shreyas Iyer steadied the middle order with a crucial 44 before an unfortunate runout at a pivotal moment. Axar Patel remained unbeaten on 41, while KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya chipped in with useful cameos. Ravindra Jadeja’s composed 11* ensured India crossed the finish line with overs to spare.
England's bowling attack struggled to contain the Indian onslaught, with Adil Rashid (1/78), Overton (2/27), and Liam Livingstone (1/29) among the wicket-takers. Gus Atkinson proved expensive, conceding 65 runs in his seven-over spell.
Earlier, England had posted 304 in 49.5 overs, riding on a solid top-order performance. Ben Duckett’s aggressive start set the tone before Ravindra Jadeja dismissed him, shifting the momentum. Joe Root and Harry Brook stitched together a crucial 50-run partnership, while skipper Jos Buttler chipped in with valuable runs. However, a late collapse saw England fall short of a more imposing total, as India's spinners exploited the slow track effectively.
Jadeja was the standout bowler with three wickets, while the Indian pacers conceded runs at an economy rate of 7.59, keeping England in the contest. But with the dew factor favouring the batters in the second innings, England found it difficult to defend their total.
India’s win secured the series and reinforced their dominance in home conditions. Rohit's match-winning knock, coupled with Jadeja’s all-round brilliance, provided the hosts with another commanding performance as they set their sights on upcoming international fixtures.
