In a display of resilience and skill, England’s Men’s Mixed Disability team secured a landmark series victory over India with a four-wicket win in the fourth T20I of the Apollo Mixed Disability Series at Jaipuria Vidyalaya Ground in Jaipur on February 4, 2026. This triumph not only gave England an unassailable 3-1 lead but also marked the first time an England Disability side has won a series on Indian soil. Chasing a modest target of 134, England overcame an early stumble to chase down the total with five balls to spare, thanks to a stellar all-round performance from Liam O’Brien.
The match, broadcast live on Doordarshan Sports, showcased the competitive spirit of mixed disability cricket, with both teams delivering moments of brilliance amid challenging conditions. England captain Callum Flynn won the toss and elected to bowl first, a decision that paid off as his bowlers kept India under pressure throughout their innings.
India’s Innings: Parmar’s Fireworks Amid Regular Wickets
India, asked to bat, struggled to form lasting partnerships and were bowled out for 133 in 19 overs. Jayesh Parmar was the standout performer for the hosts, smashing a blistering 59 off 34 balls, including five fours and five sixes, injecting much-needed momentum into the innings. Support came from Akash Singh, who scored 21 off 18 balls, and opener Yogendra Bhadoria with 16 runs, but the middle order faltered.
England’s bowlers were disciplined, with Henry Wainman leading the charge by claiming 2/16 and contributing to five dismissals overall, including two run-outs and a catch. All-rounder Liam O’Brien chipped in with two crucial wickets, striking with the first and last balls of the 17th over, while Farooq Mohammad provided the early breakthrough by dismissing Akash Singh in the fifth over. India collapsed from 114/4 to 133 all out, losing their last six wickets for just 19 runs, as England’s fielding prowess shone through with key run-outs by Wainman and Jonny Gale.
England’s Chase: O’Brien’s Heroics Turn the Tide
In response, England faced early trouble, slumping to 39/4 in the ninth over after losing openers Jonny Gale, Angus Brown, Josh Price, and captain Callum Flynn (12) in quick succession to India’s Rizwan, who claimed three wickets in consecutive overs. However, Liam O’Brien stepped up magnificently, anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 70 off 41 balls, featuring four boundaries and three sixes. His composed knock, supported by Christopher Edwards’ run-a-ball 21, steadied the ship and shifted the momentum.
The lower middle order, including Jordan Williams who remained not out, held firm against India’s disciplined bowling attack, guiding England to 136/6 in 19.1 overs. O’Brien’s all-round display—two wickets and a match-winning fifty—proved decisive in sealing the victory and the series.
Key Performances
- Liam O’Brien (England): Player of the Match with 70* (41) and 2 wickets, showcasing his versatility.
- Jayesh Parmar (India): Top-scored with 59 (33), providing a fighting chance for his team.
- Henry Wainman (England): Economical 2/16 and instrumental in fielding efforts.
Post-Match Reflections
Reflecting on the win, Liam O’Brien expressed his delight: “We’re absolutely over the moon, it’s really special to come over here and make history as a team. It’s been a brilliant series. They’ve been on top at times and they’ve made us work really hard – today included – and that’s made for really competitive cricket. It’s been a brilliant advert for Mixed Disability cricket.” He also thanked family, friends, and supporters back home for their encouragement.
Looking Ahead
With the series now in England’s pocket, the fifth and final T20I shifts to SMS Stadium in Jaipur on February 6, 2026, where India will aim to end on a positive note and salvage some pride, while England looks to complete a dominant 4-1 finish. This series has highlighted the growing prominence of mixed disability cricket, inspiring athletes and fans alike with its high level of competition and sportsmanship.
