In a thrilling clash at The Oval, England Women vs India Women turned into a nail-biter as England held their nerve to win the third T20 International by five runs. The match, played on July 4, 2025, was packed with drama, momentum shifts, and standout performances.
England Women opted to bat first and got off to a blazing start. Openers Sophia Dunkley (75) and Danni Wyatt-Hodge (66) stitched together a 137-run partnership. Their aggressive batting gave England a strong platform. Dunkley hit seven fours and a six, while Wyatt-Hodge smashed three sixes and seven boundaries.
However, the momentum quickly shifted as India Women triggered a stunning collapse. England lost nine wickets for just 31 runs in the final 25 balls, finishing on 171 for nine. Deepti Sharma (3/27) and Arundhati Reddy (3/32) led India’s bowling comeback with crucial breakthroughs.
In response, India Women looked steady. Openers Smriti Mandhana (56) and Shafali Verma (47) added 85 runs. Shafali’s quick-fire 47 came off just 25 balls. Mandhana reached her half-century in 38 deliveries. At one point, England Women vs India Women seemed tilted in India’s favor.
But England bowlers fought back. Lauren Filer dismissed Mandhana and later took Jemimah Rodrigues’ wicket, ending with figures of 2/30. Sophie Ecclestone, Issy Wong, and Lauren Bell each picked up one wicket.
The game came down to the final over. India needed 12 runs. Despite some close calls and a dropped catch, skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (23) was caught on the last ball, as India finished at 166 for five.
Speaking after the match, Harmanpreet said, “We had the game till the 16th over but couldn’t finish. Lots to learn.”
The England Women vs India Women series now stands at 2-1, with India leading. The fourth match will be played in Manchester on July 9, 2025.
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