England secured a commanding 26-run victory over India in the second women's T20I on Saturday, leveling the three-match series at 1-1. The match, held at a neutral venue, saw an outstanding all-round performance from Freya Kemp, who played a blistering knock of 39 not out off just 13 balls and later picked up two crucial wickets.
England's Innings: Kemp's Explosive Finish
Batting first, England posted a competitive total of 152 for 6 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by a steady half-century from opener Danni Wyatt, who scored 52 off 45 balls. However, it was Freya Kemp's late assault that propelled the total beyond India's reach. Coming in at number six, Kemp smashed 39 runs off 13 deliveries, including four boundaries and three sixes, at a staggering strike rate of 300.
India's bowlers struggled to contain Kemp's onslaught in the death overs. Pooja Vastrakar was the pick of the bowlers for India, claiming 2 for 28 in her four overs. Deepti Sharma also bowled economically, finishing with 1 for 24.
India's Chase: Early Wickets Derail Hopes
Chasing 153 for victory, India got off to a disastrous start. Freya Kemp struck early, removing opener Smriti Mandhana for just 8 runs, caught behind off a sharp delivery. Yastika Bhatia followed soon after, falling to a brilliant catch in the deep off the bowling of Sophie Ecclestone for 12.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur tried to rebuild the innings with a gritty 45 off 38 balls, but she lacked support from the other end. Deepti Sharma contributed 22, but regular wickets kept India behind the required rate. Kemp returned to dismiss Richa Ghosh for 14, effectively ending any hopes of a late resurgence.
India eventually finished at 126 for 7 in their 20 overs, falling 26 runs short. Ecclestone was the most successful bowler for England, taking 2 for 19 in her four overs, while Kemp finished with figures of 2 for 22.
Series Leveled
The win levels the series 1-1 after India had won the first T20I by 5 wickets. The third and final match will be played on June 2, which will decide the series winner. England will look to carry momentum, while India will aim to bounce back and clinch the series.
Freya Kemp was named Player of the Match for her all-round heroics. Her explosive batting and timely wickets proved to be the difference between the two sides.
