Published By: Sanchari Das

IND vs ENG T20I: India’s Masterclass at Rajkot – Largest Run Margin Win Ever

Rajkot witnessed history as India’s massive win set a new standard in T20 cricket

Team India, the reigning T20 World Champions, looks to seal the series against England at the iconic Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. Following a thrilling two-wicket victory in Chennai, India has maintained its winning streak, backed by stellar performances from Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and others. Rajkot, known for its high-scoring matches, has hosted some unforgettable T20I moments, including India’s largest margin win at this venue. Let’s revisit those memorable triumphs that showcased India’s dominance on this ground.

India vs. Sri Lanka, 2023

In January 2023, India secured their largest-ever T20I win at Rajkot, defeating Sri Lanka by a massive 91 runs. Batting first, India posted a towering 228/5, with Suryakumar Yadav stealing the show. His unbeaten 112 off just 51 balls was a T20 batting masterclass featuring seven boundaries and nine towering sixes. Shubman Gill and Rahul Tripathi chipped in with crucial contributions.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers, including Dilshan Madushanka and Kasun Rajitha, failed to contain India’s batting onslaught. In reply, Sri Lanka collapsed under pressure, managing only 137 in 16.4 overs. Arshdeep Singh starred with 3/20, while Hardik Pandya, Umran Malik, and Yuzvendra Chahal picked two wickets each. This emphatic victory was a testament to India’s all-round dominance.

India vs. South Africa, 2022

In June 2022, India registered another commanding win at Rajkot, defeating South Africa by 82 runs in the fourth T20I. Batting first, India posted 169/6, thanks to Dinesh Karthik's stunning 55 off 27 balls. His innings, with nine boundaries and two sixes, demonstrated his incredible finishing abilities. Hardik Pandya added a solid 46 to anchor the innings.

South Africa struggled in their chase, folding for just 87 runs. Avesh Khan was the standout bowler with figures of 4/18, ably supported by Yuzvendra Chahal and Harshal Patel. The match was a testament to India’s resilience as they levelled the series 2-2 after being down 0-2 initially.

India vs. Bangladesh, 2019

Rohit Sharma marked his 100th T20I appearance with a scintillating performance against Bangladesh in November 2019. Chasing 154, the Indian skipper smashed 85 off 43 balls, including six fours and six sixes. His half-century came in just 23 balls, setting the tone for a dominating eight-wicket victory.

Bangladesh’s bowlers found it difficult to contain Sharma’s aggression, with only Aminul Islam managing wickets. Earlier, Bangladesh posted 153/6, supported by contributions from Mohammad Naim, Litton Das, and Mahmudullah. India’s bowlers, led by Yuzvendra Chahal and Deepak Chahar, ensured the target was well within reach. This victory levelled the series 1-1, highlighting Sharma’s brilliance under pressure.

A venue of records and triumphs

The Niranjan Shah Stadium has witnessed some of India’s most memorable T20I wins. From Suryakumar Yadav’s breathtaking century to Dinesh Karthik’s finishing masterclass, the ground has been a stage for India’s cricketing excellence. It is a venue where India’s all-round strength, be it with the bat or the ball, has shone brightly.

As Team India prepares to face England in the third T20I, fans will hope for another dominant display at Rajkot. With stars like Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma in top form, the stage is set for another thrilling contest. Rajkot has been kind to India, and this time should be no different.