Root's Heroics Help England Seal Four-Wicket Win

England bounced back in style to defeat India by four wickets in the second ODI at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, on 16 July 2026, leveling the three-match series at 1-1.

Jofra Archer brought back and he gets the big wicket of Virat Kohli 👊 pic.twitter.com/ZM1yagSSVO

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 16, 2026

After being asked to bat, India were bowled out for 233 in 44 overs. Shreyas Iyer led the resistance with a composed 66 off 71 balls, while Virat Kohli contributed 65 runs. However, England's pace attack proved too strong as Gus Atkinson and Jofra Archer claimed three wickets each, restricting India to a modest total.

ROOOOOT! 🔥

Down the wicket and into the stands 😍🚀 pic.twitter.com/TFTi8k4fdU

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 14, 2026

In reply, England chased down the target with confidence, finishing on 235/6 in 44.1 overs. Joe Root produced a masterclass, remaining unbeaten on 99 to guide his side home and earn the Player of the Match award. His calm and experienced knock ensured England completed the chase with four wickets to spare.

With the victory, England leveled the ODI series 1-1, setting up a thrilling decider in the final match.