India and England kicked off their three-match ODI series at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, with the visitors winning the toss and opting to bat first. England’s openers, Phil Salt and Ben Duckett, came out with an aggressive intent, putting the Indian bowlers under pressure early on. Their attacking approach helped England get off to a flying start, with runs flowing freely in the powerplay.
Just as it seemed the duo would take the game away from India, an exceptional piece of fielding by Shreyas Iyer turned the tide in India’s favour. Phil Salt, who was looking dangerous, attempted to take a risky third run in the ninth over but fell victim to Iyer’s sharp reflexes. The Indian batter sprinted in, gathered the ball cleanly, and fired a bullet throw to the keeper, catching Salt short of his crease. His dismissal gave India the breakthrough they desperately needed, and soon after, the momentum shifted.
WATCH – Yashasvi Jaiswal’s Sensational Catch Stuns Ben Duckett In India vs England 1st ODI
Harshit Rana, making his ODI debut, struck twice in quick succession, removing Duckett for 32 and dismissing Harry Brook for a duck. From a dominant position, England suddenly found themselves struggling at 77/3. In came Joe Root and Jos Buttler, who looked to steady the ship. Root played a composed knock, rotating the strike well, while Buttler took charge of the scoring.
However, Joe Root couldn’t capitalize on his start and fell cheaply. Buttler, on the other hand, reached his half-century and was beginning to take control of the game. Just when it seemed the England skipper was set for a big score, Axar Patel and Hardik Pandya combined to send him back to the pavilion.
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On the final delivery of the 33rd over, Axar Patel bowled a short delivery down the leg side. Buttler attempted a pull shot but only managed a top edge, sending the ball high in the air. Positioned perfectly at short fine leg, Hardik Pandya made no mistake in completing a simple catch, bringing an end to Buttler’s promising innings.
England’s rebuilding process is dented as #AxarPatel gets the big wicket of #JosButtler!
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The wicket was a crucial moment in the match, and the Indian fans erupted in celebration, recognizing its significance. Even in the commentary box, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir couldn’t hide his excitement, seen enthusiastically tapping the table in approval.
