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India registered a thrilling two-wicket win over England in the second T20I of the five-match series at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday, thanks to an unbeaten and record-breaking knock by Tilak Varma. His exceptional innings not only led India to a 2-0 lead in the five-match series but also earned him a unique spot in T20I history.
Chasing a target of 166, India faced consistent setbacks as England’s Brydon Carse wreaked havoc with figures of 3/29. The hosts found themselves struggling at 146-8, needing 20 runs off the last 18 balls. However, Varma’s calm and composed 72 not out off 55 balls, laced with 4 fours and 5 sixes, ensured India crossed the finish line with four balls to spare.
Varma received crucial support from No. 10 batter Ravi Bishnoi, who contributed an invaluable nine runs, including two vital boundaries during their unbroken 20-run partnership. Together, they overcame England’s disciplined bowling attack to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.
Tilak Varma’s record-breaking streak
Varma’s innings also saw him set a new record for the most runs scored between two dismissals in T20Is among full-member nations. Since his dismissal for 20 against South Africa in Gqeberha, Varma’s subsequent scores read 107*, 120*, 19* and 72*, amassing an astounding 318 runs across four unbeaten innings. This achievement surpassed the previous record of 271 runs created by New Zealand’s Mark Chapman in 2023.
Also READ: Twitter reactions – Tilak Varma powers India to a 2-0 series lead over England in the T20Is
Players with most runs between two dismissals (Full-member teams):
318 – Tilak Varma* (107*, 120*, 19*, 72*)
271 – Mark Chapman (65*, 16*, 71*, 104*, 15)
240 – Aaron Finch (68*, 172)
240 – Shreyas Iyer (57*, 74*, 73*, 36)
239 – David Warner (100*, 60*, 57*, 2*, 20)
India eye series domination
With three matches left in the series, India holds the upper hand, thanks to Varma’s consistency and the team’s resilience under pressure. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on the young left-hander to see if he can extend his incredible record.
This victory further highlights India’s bench strength and their ability to pull off tight wins under challenging conditions.
