Joe Root once again proved why he remains England’s most dependable batter, producing an outstanding unbeaten 99 to guide his side to a four wicket victory over India in the second One Day International at Sophia Gardens. His composed innings helped England chase down 234 with 35 balls remaining, levelling the three match series at 1-1 ahead of the deciding contest at Lord’s.
England’s chase got off to the worst possible start. Ben Duckett edged the opening delivery from Jasprit Bumrah behind, while Jacob Bethell followed soon after for just four. Harry Brook looked eager to attack but never settled, making 16 before falling to Gurnoor Brar. At 53 for 3, England were under serious pressure and India appeared firmly in control.
Root responded with patience and excellent game awareness. Instead of forcing the scoring, he rebuilt the innings, reaching his half century from 76 deliveries. He received useful support from Sam Curran, who scored 26, and Will Jacks, who contributed 30 during valuable partnerships that kept England moving towards the target.
Even after Curran, Jacks and Jos Buttler departed, Root remained calm. He carefully managed the closing stages alongside Gus Atkinson, whose unbeaten 23 ensured there were no late surprises. Although Root finished just one run short of his 21st ODI century, his unbeaten knock was more than enough to secure England’s victory and record his fifth successive score above fifty.
Earlier, India struggled to build momentum despite half centuries from Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer. Kohli struck a fluent 65 while Iyer added a determined 66, but no other batter made a significant contribution as the visitors were dismissed for 233 in only 44 overs.
Jofra Archer led England’s bowling effort with figures of 3 for 47. After an economical opening spell, he returned strongly in the closing overs to remove Kohli, Axar Patel and Shivam Dube in quick succession. Gus Atkinson also impressed with 3 for 50, while Saqib Mahmood claimed two wickets to keep India’s total well below expectations.
India did have opportunities to tighten their grip during England’s chase, but Root’s experience and composure proved decisive. His latest match winning performance underlined his value once again, steering England through a difficult situation with remarkable control.
With the series now tied at 1-1, all attention shifts to Lord’s, where both teams will battle for victory in the final ODI and the series title.
