Greater Noida, February 1, 2026 – In a gripping encounter at the Shahid Vijay Singh Pathik Stadium, England bounced back from their opening defeat to level the five-match Mixed Disability International T20 Series at 1-1. Producing a stellar all-round performance, England defended a formidable total of 206/3 to secure a 15-run victory over hosts India in the second T20I on January 31.
The series, a historic maiden overseas tour for England’s Mixed Disability team, has already showcased the spirit and skill of differently-abled cricketers from both nations. After India’s convincing seven-wicket win in the opener, England turned the tables with aggressive batting and disciplined bowling, setting the stage for an exciting remainder of the tour.
England’s Explosive Batting Sets the Tone
Opting to field after winning the toss, India aimed to restrict England but were met with resistance from the visitors’ batters. Early wickets provided some hope, but Angus Garant Brown stole the show with a breathtaking unbeaten century. Brown’s 100 came off just 43 balls, laced with seven fours and eight sixes, turning the innings into a masterclass of power-hitting.
Partnering him in an unbroken stand was Lian O’Brien, who contributed a steady 51 not out from 30 deliveries. Together, they propelled England to 206/3 in their 20 overs, a total that proved just out of India’s reach. For India, Bhat Rizwan was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 2/19, but the rest of the attack struggled to contain the late onslaught.
Brown’s knock not only anchored the innings but also earned him the Player of the Match award, highlighting his pivotal role in England’s resurgence.
India’s Valiant Chase Falls Short
Chasing 207, India started brightly, with openers Akash Singh and skipper Ravindra Sante providing fireworks. Singh smashed 48 off 22 balls, while Sante added 32 from 17, keeping the required run rate in check early on. Jithendra V N chipped in with a quick 28, maintaining momentum through the middle overs.
However, England’s bowlers struck at crucial junctures. James Dixon and Henry John led the charge, picking up key wickets and applying pressure in the death overs. Regular breakthroughs disrupted India’s rhythm, and despite a fighting effort, the hosts finished at 191/8 – 16 runs shy of the target.
The match underscored the fine margins in T20 cricket, with England’s composure under pressure proving decisive.
Series Context and What’s Next
This victory marks a significant morale boost for England, who suffered a seven-wicket loss in the first T20I on January 29, where India chased down 174 with ease. With the series now tied at 1-1, both teams will be eager to gain the upper hand in the third T20I, scheduled at the same venue.
The Mixed Disability International T20 Series not only promotes inclusivity in cricket but also highlights the extraordinary talent within the disability cricket community. Fans can catch the action live on Doordarshan Sports or follow updates via official channels.
Stay tuned for more as this enthralling series unfolds!
