England produced a commanding all-round performance to defeat India by 56 runs in the fifth and final T20 International at Southampton, completing a 4-0 series sweep after the opening match was washed out by rain.
The hosts delivered a batting masterclass after being asked to bat, piling up a massive 257/3 in their 20 overs. Captain Jos Buttler led from the front with a breathtaking 131 off 64 balls, while Harry Brook remained unbeaten on 95 off 45 deliveries. The duo stitched together a remarkable 233-run partnership, leaving India’s bowlers with no answers and helping England register their highest-ever T20I total against India.
Facing a daunting target of 258, India began positively but struggled to maintain the required scoring rate. Ishan Kishan scored a fighting 56, while Tilak Varma added a quick-fire 53, but regular wickets derailed the chase. England’s disciplined bowling attack, led by Sam Curran (3 wickets) and Adil Rashid, ensured India finished on 201/8, handing the visitors a comprehensive defeat.
The match was also marked by an unusual delay before the start after India’s team bus was caught in heavy traffic on the way to the stadium, pushing back the scheduled first ball by 30 minutes. Despite the disruption, England maintained complete control from the outset and never allowed India back into the contest.
With the victory, England wrapped up the five-match T20I series in emphatic fashion, winning 4-0, while India endured a disappointing campaign. The focus for both teams now shifts to the upcoming ODI series, where India will look to regroup and bounce back after a difficult tour in the shortest format.