India’s bowlers delivered an outstanding performance under the lights in Lucknow, securing a resounding 100-run victory over England and maintaining the host nation’s unbeaten record in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.
In a match where the bowlers dominated, India managed to reach a total of 229/9 in their 50 overs. This left the outcome of the game in the balance at the midway point.
However, England’s struggling batting lineup crumbled under the pressure exerted by India’s inspired pace attack. Mohammed Shami claimed an impressive 4/22, while Jasprit Bumrah took 3/32, leading India to a convincing win.
In retrospect, Rohit Sharma’s remarkable 87 runs was the standout batting performance of the day, holding India’s innings together even as wickets tumbled around him. The captain came close to scoring a century before being expertly caught in the deep by Adil Rashid, thanks to Liam Livingstone.
Other contributions from KL Rahul (39), Suryakumar Yadav (49), and Jasprit Bumrah (16) ensured that the tournament hosts posted a total that gave their bowlers a substantial target to defend.
The defending champions needed to chase a target of 230, and the presence of dew on the outfield was expected to reduce the impact of India’s spinners. However, England’s batting lineup struggled significantly after losing the first wicket, collapsing in a disheartening display. They lost all ten wickets for just 99 runs, leaving them at the bottom of the tournament standings.
With their sixth consecutive win, India climbed to the top of the table, holding a two-point lead over South Africa in second place.
