The India vs England 1st T20I was abandoned without a result on Wednesday after heavy rain prevented England from beginning their chase of India’s 189/7 at the Riverside Ground. The series opener ended in disappointment for fans as persistent rain forced the umpires to call off the match after the first innings.
The ground staff rushed to cover the square as rain intensified soon after India completed their innings. Both teams waited until the 9 pm local cut-off for a five-over contest before the umpires officially abandoned the match.
India vs England 1st T20I Abandoned Due to Rain
Heavy rain continued throughout the evening, leaving no opportunity for play to resume. The two captains eventually shook hands after the officials confirmed the match could not restart.
The washout means both teams remain level in the T20I series heading into the second match.
Shreyas Iyer and Abhishek Sharma Power India to 189/7
Earlier, skipper Shreyas Iyer and Abhishek Sharma struck impressive half-centuries, while Shivam Dube provided a powerful late flourish to lift India to 189/7 in 20 overs.
On a challenging surface, Iyer scored 68 off 47 balls, including six fours and a six, while Abhishek smashed 59 off just 24 deliveries with six fours and four sixes. Dube remained unbeaten on 42 off 21 balls, helping India finish strongly.
India added 54 runs in the final five overs to post a competitive total despite early setbacks.
Abhishek Sharma Creates Record Despite Rain-Hit Match
After India slipped to 6/2, Abhishek Sharma launched a stunning counterattack with a 20-ball half-century—the fastest by an Indian batter in England.
He also became the fastest batter to hit 100 sixes in T20Is, reaching the milestone in 785 deliveries, surpassing West Indies batter Evin Lewis, who achieved the feat in 789 balls.
Shreyas later anchored the innings before Dube’s aggressive finishing ensured India crossed the 180-run mark.
Saqib Mahmood Impresses for England
Despite India’s strong total, England pacer Saqib Mahmood stood out with three wickets, while Sam Curran claimed the key wicket of Abhishek Sharma and also effected Axar Patel’s run-out.
England, however, never got the chance to begin their chase as relentless rain washed out the remainder of the contest.
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