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England Women Face Crunch Match in Manchester as India Eye Series Triumph
It's do or die for England Women as they face a formidable Indian side in the 4th T20I at Emirates Old Trafford today! With India holding a 2-1 series lead, the hosts desperately need a win to keep the series alive. Can they overcome Smriti Mandhana's incredible form and India's potent bowling attack?
Manchester, UK – All eyes are on Emirates Old Trafford today as England Women prepare for a pivotal encounter against a dominant India Women in the fourth T20 International of the 2025 tour. With India currently leading the five-match series by a commanding 2-1 margin, this match is nothing short of a must-win for the home side to force a decider.
The action is set to begin at 6:30 PM local time (5:30 PM GMT), with cricket enthusiasts anticipating a gripping contest under the Manchester lights.
India has showcased exceptional prowess throughout the series, securing convincing victories in the first two T20Is. While England displayed grit to claw back a five-run win in the third T20I at The Oval, the visitors remained in a strong position. A triumph in Manchester would not only seal the series for India but also mark a historic achievement on English soil.
Batting Brilliance: Smriti Mandhana's Masterclass Continues
The spotlight will undoubtedly remain fixed on India's dynamic opener, Smriti Mandhana. Her form has been scintillating, including a magnificent century in the opening T20I and a crucial half-century in the last game. Mandhana leads the series in runs and will be determined to continue her incredible run-scoring spree to guide India to an unassailable lead.
For England, consistent performances from their top order are paramount. Openers Sophia Dunkley and Danielle Wyatt-Hodge have shown glimpses of their attacking potential, but the team needs a collective batting effort. Captain Tammy Beaumont, stepping up in the absence of Nat Sciver-Brunt, will be crucial in marshalling the innings and setting a competitive total or spearheading a successful chase.
Bowling Battle: India's Spin Web vs. England's Pace Power
India's bowling unit has been highly effective, with debutant Shree Charani emerging as the standout performer, leading the series' wicket-takers with eight scalps. Her ability to provide crucial breakthroughs has been a significant factor in India's success. Deepti Sharma's control and wicket-taking ability in the middle overs have also been vital.
England's hopes hinge on their pace battery, with Lauren Bell and Lauren Filer needing to provide early inroads and restrict India's flow of runs. The ever-reliable Sophie Ecclestone will be key with her left-arm spin, aiming to tie down the batters and pick up wickets during the crucial phases.
Old Trafford's Conditions: What to Expect
Emirates Old Trafford is known for offering a balanced pitch, providing opportunities for both batters and bowlers. Historically, pacers can find some early movement, and as the game progresses, spinners tend to come into play. The average first-innings score at this venue in T20Is is around 154, with the chasing side having a slight advantage. The weather forecast for Manchester suggests a possibility of light rain, which could add an element of unpredictability to the match. The toss-winning captain might prefer to bowl first, looking to exploit any early moisture and chase a target under the floodlights.
This fourth T20I is more than just a game; it's a test of nerve, skill, and resilience. Can England rally and take the series to a grand finale, or will India create history with an emphatic series victory? All will be revealed at Emirates Old Trafford!
5th T20
INDW VS ENGW
12 July
Edgbaston
11.05PM
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