Shubman Gill's India Breach Fortress Edgbaston As England's Winning Streak Ends

Team India [Source: AFP]

Fortress Edgbaston has finally been conquered. Team India ended their 12-year wait for an ODI victory at Birmingham as they defeated England by six wickets in the 1st ODI of the three-match series on Tuesday, July 14. 

Led by Shubman Gill, India chased down a competitive target of 259 with authority, ending England's long-standing dominance at the venue.

Notably, Gill once again led from the front with a classy 80, while Axar Patel and Washington Sundar played unbeaten half-centuries under pressure to ensure India crossed the finish line with 28 balls to spare.

India end 12-year wait at Edgbaston

Notably, India finally ended their 12-year wait for an ODI victory at Edgbaston, a venue where England had turned their home ground into a fortress over the last decade.

It is worth mentioning that England had won each of their previous seven ODIs at Birmingham after their last defeat to India at the venue in 2014. That impressive streak finally came to an end as Shubman Gill's side delivered a clinical performance to register a memorable victory. 

India also registered their sixth consecutive ODI victory over England, their longest winning streak against the Three Lions in the format. Previously, India had managed five successive ODI wins against England on three separate occasions.

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Joe Root and Dawson rescue England after early collapse

Talking about the match, England recovered well after suffering a dramatic collapse at the start of their innings. Joe Root stood till the end, scoring 76*, while Liam Dawson played a valuable knock of 68.

The pair stitched together 121-run partnership for the 7th wicket after England had slipped to 107/6. Their stand helped the hosts post a respectable total of 258 before being bowled out.

Axar Patel starred with 4 wickets, while pacers Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar claimed 2 wickets each.

Shubman Gill anchors chase before Axar Patel and Washington Sundar finish the job

India's chase revolved around another mature innings from Shubman Gill. The right-hander looked set for his 10th ODI century, striking 11 boundaries and a six during his fluent knock of 80. However, his innings was cut short after he retired hurt due to cramps.

India faced a brief wobble when Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul departed in quick succession.Yet, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar held their nerve brilliantly.

Axar remained unbeaten on 57, while Sundar complemented him perfectly with an unbeaten 52. Their partnership ensured there were no further hiccups as India comfortably completed the chase in 45.2 overs.

India's next target: Series win in Cardiff

With momentum firmly on their side after breaching the Edgbaston fortress, India's focus now shifts to Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, where they will take on England in the 2nd ODI on July 16. 

Having taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, Shubman Gill and his men will be aiming to clinch the series with another victory and extend their impressive dominance over England in the 50-over format.

India also have decent memories at the Cardiff venue. The Men in Blue have played two ODIs at Sophia Gardens, winning one and losing one against England. 

Interestingly, their most recent meeting at the ground came in 2014, when India emerged victorious. With confidence soaring after their convincing win at Edgbaston, India will look to build on that record, seal the ODI series.

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