England produced a remarkable turnaround to defeat India in the ODI series after bouncing back from an opening-game defeat. The hosts sealed the series with a 27-run victory in the decider at Lord’s, completing a successful white-ball campaign that also included a dominant T20I series triumph.
Following the series-clinching win, England captain Harry Brook praised head coach Brendon McCullum for making a crucial tactical suggestion at a decisive stage of the match. Brook revealed that a brief conversation with the former New Zealand skipper helped England regain control when India looked set to chase down the massive target.
Harry Brook credits Brendon McCullum for key tactical call
India’s chase gathered momentum thanks to Rohit Sharma’s brilliant century, putting England under pressure during the middle overs. Looking for a breakthrough, Brook briefly consulted McCullum before making an important bowling change. The England skipper introduced part-time spinner Jacob Bethell into the attack, a move that proved decisive as the young all-rounder dismissed Rohit and shifted the momentum back in England’s favour.
“That was a tough little period. They were obviously getting ahead of the game and playing really well. I decided to go off for an over and have a quick chat with Baz to gather his thoughts. He said, ‘Have a go with Beth, a slightly different spinner to what we’ve got with him driving it into the pitch,’ and thankfully it came off. The communication has been outstanding throughout the T20s and throughout the ODIs,” Brook said.
Brook delighted after England seal memorable series victory
Brook praised the resilience shown by his side after losing the opening ODI, saying the team’s belief and togetherness played a major role in completing the comeback. England posted a record List A total of 387/3 at Lord’s, built around Ben Duckett’s magnificent 141, while Joe Root and Jos Buttler also made valuable contributions. Although Rohit kept India in the contest with a superb 138, England held their nerve in the closing stages to secure a 27-run victory and clinch the series 2-1.
“I’m extremely pleased with the way we have performed throughout the whole series. Going 1-0 down and the fight, camaraderie and belief to win 2-1 in the end is a credit to the team, the coaches and an outstanding performance,” Brook said.
Brook also admitted that combining leadership responsibilities across all formats in the future would be challenging but said he would consider the opportunity if it ever came his way.
