Duckett's big century sets up England series win over India

England secured a hard-fought 27-run victory over India in the third and final One-Day International (ODI) at Lord’s on Sunday, clinching their first bilateral ODI series triumph against the world’s top-ranked team since 2018. The match, played under bright skies at the iconic venue, saw England post a mammoth 387-3 in 50 overs, setting a new record for the highest score at Lord’s in an ODI. Opener Ben Duckett starred with a stunning 141 from 135 balls, marking his second ODI century and laying the foundation for England’s commanding position. Duckett’s innings, rich in boundaries, included 18 fours and a single six, forming a formidable partnership with Jacob Bethell. Their opening stand of 192 was the highest ever recorded in an ODI between England and India, surpassing previous records. Bethell contributed 91, while Joe Root added 74 not out, his sixth consecutive half-century in ODIs, to bolster the total. Jos Buttler, playing with characteristic flair, scored an unbeaten 41 in just 13 balls, showcasing England’s explosive batting depth. India, despite a valiant effort led by Rohit Sharma, found themselves unable to keep pace with the England total. Sharma, making his 34th ODI hundred, scored 138 from 110 balls in a blistering display. He partnered with Shubman Gill for a 147-run first-wicket stand, with Gill scoring 77. However, the collapse began swiftly once Gill departed, bowled by Bethell’s slow left-arm spin. A dramatic sequence saw three Indian wickets fall in seven deliveries, including Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer caught in the deep by substitute Rehan Ahmed, and Virat Kohli misjudging a shot to Harry Brook for 74. With the target set at 360, India managed to reach 360-7, but the damage had already been done. England’s bowling, spearheaded by Sam Curran, who claimed 4-75, kept the pressure on throughout. Curran’s efforts were crucial in dismantling the Indian lineup, particularly during the critical phase when the hosts needed to close the gap. India’s attack, missing key player Jasprit Bumrah due to a knee injury, struggled significantly. Gurnoor Brar conceded 97 runs in 10 overs, the most expensive figures for India against England in an ODI, while Prince Yadav bowled seven wides, contributing minimally to the cause. India’s campaign in the series has been marked by inconsistency, with losses in both the T20 formats against Ireland and England. Captain Shubman Gill acknowledged the challenges faced, noting that England’s late-game aggression cost them dearly. “We gave a bit too many runs in the last three overs, around 60 runs. That’s where the game went too far ahead from us,” Gill admitted. As the dust settles on a thrilling encounter, England’s victory marks a significant milestone in their cricketing journey. The result not only cements their place among the elite but also provides momentum heading into future fixtures. For India, the loss adds to a difficult tour, highlighting areas needing improvement in both batting and bowling strategies. The series concludes with England celebrating a well-deserved triumph, having overcome adversity and delivered a performance worthy of their status as a leading force in global cricket.