England are just one win away from becoming the No.1 team in the ICC Men’s T20I rankings after a dominant nine-wicket victory over India in the fourth T20 International. The impressive win helped England seal the series with one match still to play.
Now, the hosts have an opportunity to complete a 4-0 series sweep when they face India in the fifth and final T20I in Southampton on July 11.
Harry Brook and Phil Salt Power England to Victory
England produced a clinical batting display while chasing India’s target.
Captain Harry Brook led from the front with a brilliant 79 off 35 balls, while Phil Salt remained equally impressive with 59 off 42 deliveries.
The pair added an unbeaten 146-run partnership, helping England chase down the target with more than six overs to spare.
Their dominant performance ensured England wrapped up the series in convincing fashion.
England Target Top Spot in ICC Rankings
With the series already secured, England now have another major objective.
A victory in the final T20I would take England to the No.1 position in the ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings, moving ahead of reigning ICC Men’s T20 World Cup champions India.
Speaking after the match, Harry Brook said the team is fully focused on finishing the series strongly.
“To beat India 4-0 would be a pretty special series win if I’m being honest. And to go No.1 in the world would be even better. That is our main aim. We want to go out there and try and beat them convincingly again.”
Brook Praises Team’s Execution
Brook said the players are motivated by the opportunity to become the world’s top-ranked T20I side.
He also acknowledged India’s quality despite their disappointing performances during the series.
“We’ve been told if we win the next game, we go to world No.1 and that’s definitely a prize that we’re eyeing up. India are a strong side. They probably haven’t been as good in this series as they have been over the last couple of years, but we’re really happy with the way that we’ve executed our plans.”
According to Brook, England’s disciplined execution has been one of the biggest reasons behind the team’s success throughout the series.
Final T20I Set for Southampton
England and India will meet in the fifth and final T20I at Southampton on July 11.
While England will look to complete a clean sweep and claim the No.1 ranking, India will aim to finish the series on a positive note and avoid a 4-0 defeat.
The final match promises to be significant for both teams, with England chasing another milestone and India hoping to restore some pride after a difficult series.