A pivotal performance at Old Trafford
England secured a four-wicket victory over India in the second T20 International at Emirates Old Trafford on Saturday, taking a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. The win was anchored by a clinical 76 not out from Jacob Bethell, who guided the hosts through a challenging chase of 191 runs.
The match turned decisively in the 17th over, when Indian leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi conceded 29 runs. Bishnoi’s struggle, compounded by two front-foot no-balls that provided Bethell with vital free hits, allowed the 22-year-old to accelerate and dismantle the Indian bowling attack. Bethell finished with five fours and five sixes in his 46-ball stay, ultimately sealing the win with an over to spare alongside Jofra Archer.
The youngest debutant in Indian cricket history
The fixture was marked by the historic international debut of 15-year-old Indian prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. At 15 years and 99 days, Sooryavanshi surpassed the long-standing record held by Sachin Tendulkar to become the youngest man to play for India. The teenager showcased his potential by launching two aggressive sixes during his 14-run cameo before being dismissed.
Despite the excitement surrounding the debutant, India’s total of 190 for seven proved insufficient. While Abhishek Sharma (43) and Ishan Kishan (49) provided a strong foundation, England’s bowling unit—led by Sam Curran’s 3-33—managed to contain the tourists. England’s response began poorly, with openers Phil Salt and Jos Buttler falling for ducks in the first over, but a rapid 39 from captain Harry Brook and the composed finishing of Bethell ensured the hosts claimed the series lead following the washed-out opener.