Ravi Bopara’s spectacular century and a brilliant four-wicket haul by Ajmal Shahzad helped England Champions secure a 23-run win over India Champions in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 at Headingley on Sunday.
Set a challenging target of 224, India Champions’ chase faltered early, and despite some valuable contributions, they could only manage 200 for 8 in their 20 overs.
The match started on a sour note for India, with Robin Uthappa dismissed for a golden duck. Shikhar Dhawan followed shortly, making 17 off 16 balls, leaving India at 33-2 in 5.1 overs.
Ambati Rayudu and Yuvraj Singh then tried to stabilize the innings, with Rayudu making 28 off 21 balls. However, he was caught just as India looked to accelerate.
With India at 66 for 3 in eight overs, Yuvraj took charge, building a partnership with Stuart Binny. The duo put on 43 runs before Binny was dismissed for a quick-fire 35 off 13 balls, including three sixes and three fours.
Yuvraj continued to anchor the chase, making 38 off 27 balls, but with India needing 67 runs from 26 balls, the task became increasingly difficult. Despite a late flourish from Yousuf Pathan, who made 52 off 29 balls, India fell short, finishing at 200 for 8.
For England, Ravi Bopara’s century was the highlight. He smashed 110 off 55 balls, which included eight sixes and eight fours. His brilliant knock led England Champions to a formidable total of 223 for 3 in their 20 overs.
Despite an early setback, when Phil Mustard was dismissed for a single run, Bopara and Ian Bell built a strong 131-run partnership. Bell contributed 54 off 39 balls before being dismissed, but Bopara continued his assault, reaching his century.
Moeen Ali and Samit Patel provided excellent support towards the end, adding 33 off 13 balls and 20 off 9 balls, respectively, ensuring England posted a commanding total.
Ajmal Shahzad’s four-wicket performance was critical in restricting India’s progress. He claimed four wickets in his four-over spell, playing a pivotal role in England’s win. For India, Harbhajan Singh was the standout bowler, picking up two wickets.
Ravi Bopara’s sensational century, combined with Shahzad’s brilliant bowling, helped England Champions take a 23-run victory, marking their first win in the WCL 2025.
In other news, read about Tim David’s explosive 37-ball century, leading Australia to a series victory over the West Indies
