February 1, 2025: In a thrilling fourth T20I in Pune, India successfully defended a target of 182 to clinch a 15-run victory over England, taking a 3-1 lead in the five-match series. The match was filled with pivotal moments, and one of the key turning points came when India bowled out Harry Brook, who was in destructive form, just as he seemed poised to guide England to a successful chase.
Brook had been brilliant, smashing a quickfire 51 runs off just 26 balls, including 5 fours and 2 sixes, making it look like England could steal the game. However, Varun Chakravarthy’s dismissal of Brook in the 15th over shifted the momentum in India’s favor, allowing the Indian bowlers to take control.
India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, highlighted how crucial that moment was, acknowledging that they had identified Brook as a key threat and knew they needed to get him out to stay in the game. “That was a massive moment in the game,” Morkel said. “Harry’s a quality player, a real finisher, and we were speaking in the dugout, and I said we need to get him out because if he bats another couple of overs, we’re in trouble.”
Despite the challenging conditions, with a wet outfield, India’s bowlers maintained their composure. Morkel praised the team for sticking to their attacking plans, taking wickets, and executing under pressure. Harshit Rana, who had replaced the concussed Shivam Dube, made a crucial impact, and Ravi Bishnoi, who was brilliant with the ball, ended with figures of 3/28. Along with Varun Chakravarthy, who bagged 2/28, and Arshdeep Singh and Axar Patel who each took a wicket, the Indian bowling attack kept England’s chase in check.
India will now play the fifth and final match of the series at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on February 2, looking to wrap up the series in style.