England secured a commanding 48-run victory over India in the second T20 international at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Jos Buttler's side produced a dominant all-round display, posting 198 for 9 before restricting India to 150 for 9.
England Innings: Buttler and Brook Lead the Charge
After being put in to bat, England's openers Jos Buttler and Phil Salt got off to a flying start, adding 52 runs in the powerplay. Buttler was in imperious form, smashing 68 off 42 balls with eight fours and two sixes. Harry Brook provided late impetus with a blistering 46 off 22 balls, including four sixes, as England posted a challenging total.
India's bowlers fought back in the death overs, with Arshdeep Singh taking 3 for 37 and Ravi Bishnoi claiming 2 for 32, but the damage was already done.
India's Chase: Early Wickets Derail Run Chase
Chasing 199 for victory, India's top order crumbled under pressure from England's pace attack. Jofra Archer struck early, removing Shubman Gill for 8, while Sam Curran dismissed Virat Kohli for 12. Suryakumar Yadav fought valiantly with 47 off 35 balls, but wickets fell at regular intervals.
England's spinners, Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali, applied the brakes in the middle overs, with Rashid finishing with 2 for 24 from his four overs. India eventually finished on 150 for 9, falling well short of the target.
Series Dominance: England's Tactical Mastery
The victory was England's sixth consecutive T20 win over India, underlining their dominance in the format. Captain Jos Buttler praised his team's execution: "We were outstanding with the ball, and the batting unit set it up nicely. It's a great feeling to win the series."
India captain Rohit Sharma admitted his side were outplayed: "We didn't bat well enough. England bowled brilliantly, and we need to regroup for the final game."
What's Next: Final T20 in Bristol
The third and final T20 international will be played at Bristol on Saturday, July 6. India will be looking to restore some pride, while England aim for a clean sweep ahead of the T20 World Cup.
