In a game that showcased grit, flair, and composure, India Women scripted an emphatic victory over England Women in the second T20I at Bristol, storming to a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. Buoyed by half-centuries from Jemimah Rodrigues and Amanjot Kaur, and backed by a clinical bowling display, India not only pulled off a remarkable comeback after early setbacks but also handed England their first defeat in a women’s T20 international at this venue.
Coming off a massive win in the series opener, India maintained their aggressive brand of cricket, while England stuck with an unchanged XI and similar tactics. However, their repeated shortcomings – especially at the top of the order – left them chasing shadows once again.
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Rodrigues and Amanjot Lead Recovery After Sluggish Start
England’s decision to bowl first paid off early as India stumbled to 31/3 inside the powerplay. Lauren Filer, Lauren Bell, and Em Arlott dismantled the Indian top order with sharp seam bowling and energetic fielding. Shafali Verma gloved behind, Smriti Mandhana fell to a stunning catch by Bell at mid-on, and Harmanpreet Kaur was undone by a short delivery that had her caught at backward point.
At that precarious juncture, Jemimah Rodrigues and Amanjot Kaur came together and orchestrated a stunning turnaround. Rodrigues, initially watchful, was troubled by Filer’s short balls and took time to settle. But once she found her rhythm, the innings shifted gears dramatically.
Rodrigues launched a counterattack with a blistering assault on Arlott: “She responded to a blow on the helmet from Arlott by creaming the seamer over long-on to start a sequence of 6, 4, 4.” From scoops to slashes, she played all around the park en route to a 33-ball half-century—her first against England in limited-overs internationals. Her final score of 63 from 41 was a dazzling blend of precision and power.
Amanjot, promoted to bat at No. 5, rose to the occasion with equal poise. Steady at first, she exploded later in the innings, notably smashing Sophie Ecclestone for multiple boundaries as India amassed 117 runs in the last ten overs. She brought up her maiden T20I fifty in style, finishing unbeaten and ensuring India posted a formidable 177/4—Bristol’s second-highest total in women’s T20Is.
England Falter Early as India’s Bowlers Strike
Chasing 178, England needed a strong foundation but instead found themselves in deep trouble early on. Sophia Dunkley was run out needlessly after a miscommunication, and Danni Wyatt-Hodge—struggling for form—fell trying to clear the infield, scoring just 2.
India’s bowling attack, energized by the big total, maintained consistent pressure. Amanjot Kaur struck a crucial blow by removing Nat Sciver-Brunt, adding to her all-round performance. At 17/3 inside five overs, England were already battling uphill.
Tammy Beaumont, returning to the T20 setup after a hiatus, took up the mantle. Entering the crease in the second over, she resurrected England’s innings with a stylish knock. “From 11 off 10, she struck Radha Yadav for back-to-back boundaries in a 15-run seventh over.” Her counter-punch included fierce cuts, delicate drives, and smart running. She reached her first T20I half-century since 2021 with a boundary off N Shree Charani, but her valiant knock ended with a run out—caught short at the non-striker’s end due to Sneh Rana’s pinpoint throw.
Middle-Order Collapse Thwarts England’s Comeback
Beaumont’s dismissal was the tipping point. Amy Jones, who had stitched a solid 70-run stand with her, fell shortly after, and Alice Capsey’s brief stay was cut short by a double-strike from Charani. The required rate ballooned to nearly 15 per over, and England’s innings crumbled under scoreboard pressure.
Despite a late cameo from Ecclestone, who cracked 35 off 23 with some audacious shots, England couldn’t bridge the growing gap. India’s bowlers stuck to their plans, mixing pace and lengths effectively. Deepti Sharma, Charani, Amanjot, and Radha Yadav all chipped in, maintaining composure during the death overs.
Unbeaten Bristol Run Broken as India Celebrate Landmark Win
The loss marked England’s first-ever T20I defeat at Bristol, a venue where they had previously enjoyed uninterrupted dominance. For Charlotte Edwards and her team, the back-to-back defeats raise pressing questions about team balance, top-order form, and bowling execution.
India, on the other hand, were jubilant. Rodrigues and Amanjot had not just saved their side but propelled them to a commanding position, and the bowlers had responded in kind. It was a team effort built on resilience, skill, and flair.
What Lies Ahead: Kia Oval Showdown
With the third T20I scheduled at the Kia Oval, England must regroup quickly. Sciver-Brunt’s lean returns, the form slump of Wyatt-Hodge, and tactical rigidity need immediate attention. Beaumont’s resurgence is a positive, but the team requires collective upliftment to remain competitive in the series.
For India, the momentum is now unmistakably theirs. With two commanding victories, they’ve announced themselves as a top-tier T20 side capable of competing in any conditions. The challenge will now be to maintain consistency and potentially wrap up the series in the next outing.
Match Summary:
| Match | England Women vs India Women – 2nd T20I |
|---|---|
| Venue | County Ground, Bristol |
| Result | India Women won by 15 runs |
| Series Score | India lead 2-0 |
India Batting Highlights:
- Jemimah Rodrigues – 63 (41)
- Amanjot Kaur – 51* (35)
- Richa Ghosh – 30* (20)
England Bowling Standouts:
- Lauren Bell – 2/17 (4)
- Ecclestone – 0/38 (4)
England Batting Highlights:
- Tammy Beaumont – 52 (42)
- Sophie Ecclestone – 35 (23)
- Amy Jones – 30 (25)
India Bowling Performers:
- Amanjot Kaur – 1/24 (3)
- N Shree Charani – 2/20 (3)
- Deepti Sharma – 1/18 (4)
Read More: England vs India 2nd Test: Preview, Prediction, Team News and Where to Watch the Match LIVE
FAQs
What was the turning point in the match?
The 93-run partnership between Jemimah Rodrigues and Amanjot Kaur changed the momentum after India were reduced to 31/3.
Who was the Player of the Match?
Jemimah Rodrigues earned the accolade for her match-defining 63 off 41 balls.
Why was Tammy Beaumont’s innings significant?
She scored her first T20I fifty since 2021 and showcased her experience amidst a top-order collapse.
What’s the current scoreline in the series?
India lead the five-match series 2-0.
When is the third T20I scheduled?
The third match will take place at the Kia Oval on Friday.
