England Seal Apollo Mixed Disability T20I Series with Clinical Jaipur Victory
In a display of composed cricket under pressure, England emerged victorious in the fourth T20I of the Apollo Mixed Disability Series, defeating India by four wickets at the Jaipuria Vidyalaya Ground in Jaipur on Wednesday. This triumph gives England an unassailable 3–1 lead in the five-match series, confirming their dominance in the contest with one game still to play.
India's Batting Struggles and Parmar's Spark
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, the Indian team found it challenging to build substantial partnerships throughout their innings. The hosts were eventually restricted to 133 for 9 in 18.5 overs, a total that seemed below par on a good batting surface. The innings was punctuated by regular wickets, which prevented any significant acceleration during the crucial death overs.
Jayesh Parmar was the standout performer for India, playing a scintillating knock of 59 runs off just 33 deliveries. His explosive innings included five boundaries and five maximums, injecting much-needed momentum into the Indian batting effort. Supporting contributions came from Akash Singh, who scored a brisk 21 off 18 balls, and wicketkeeper Yogendra Bhadoria, who added 16 runs at the top of the order. However, England's bowlers maintained tight lines and discipline, ensuring India never fully capitalized on Parmar's fireworks.
O'Brien's Masterclass Anchors England's Chase
Chasing a modest target of 134, England demonstrated both depth and calmness in their approach. The chase was expertly anchored by Liam O'Brien, who played a commanding, match-winning innings. O'Brien remained unbeaten on 70 off 41 balls, striking four fours and three sixes while pacing the innings intelligently against the Indian bowling attack.
O'Brien received valuable support from Christopher Edwards, who chipped in with 21 runs, and skipper Callum Flynn, who contributed 12 to keep the chase on track despite occasional hiccups. India did apply brief pressure through disciplined bowling spells, but England's lower middle order held firm. Jordan Williams stayed not out to guide his team home as England reached 136 for 6 in 19.1 overs, sealing the victory with five balls to spare.
Series Implications and Final Match Preview
With this comprehensive victory, England have not only taken a decisive 3–1 lead in the series but have also showcased their superiority in mixed disability cricket. The visitors displayed better execution in both batting and bowling departments, particularly in handling pressure situations.
The fifth and final T20I of the Apollo Mixed Disability Series is scheduled to be played at the SMS Stadium in Jaipur on February 6. While England will aim to finish the series on a high note and complete a convincing victory, India will look to salvage pride and end their campaign with a consolation win. The final match promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams seek to make their final statements in this competitive series.
This series has highlighted the growing talent and competitive spirit in mixed disability cricket, with both teams showcasing remarkable skill and determination throughout the matches. The Jaipur leg of the series has particularly demonstrated the sport's increasing popularity and the high standard of cricket being played in this format.
