England pulled off a four-wicket series-levelling victory in Cardiff as Joe Root’s masterclass exposed a late Indian batting collapse, setting up a winner-takes-all finale at Lord’s on Sunday (July 19), which could be Rohit Sharma’s final match in the India jersey.

The conditions were perfect in Cardiff with blue skies and bright sunshine, making it look as though India was cruising toward an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. However, Root stood in India’s way once again, scoring a brilliant 99 not out to anchor England’s successful chase and push the series to a decider at the home of cricket.

Also read: 2nd ODI match report

India had initially gotten off to a very promising start in the match. Captain Shubman Gill looked in sublime touch, continuing a spectacular run of form that included two unbeaten half-centuries and two centuries just before this game.

Gill and Rohit

Gill looked primed for another massive score until he was dismissed for 31. On the other hand, opener Rohit looked a little scratchy at the crease, showing clear signs of a struggle for form.

The biggest indicator of Rohit’s current struggles was how late he looked on his trademark pull shot. This particular stroke has been his greatest strength over many years, making his mistiming a worrying sign for the team.

In contrast, Virat Kohli was incredibly fluent and looked in excellent touch during his stay. He scored a composed 65 and seemed well on his way to a definitive, big knock for the visitors.

The decisive collapse

At one stage, India looked completely in control of the contest. Kohli and Shreyas Iyer (66) rebuilt the innings beautifully, guiding India to a strong position at 178 for 3 before a sudden wobble changed everything.

India catastrophically lost their last 7 wickets for just 55 runs. This dramatic batting collapse ultimately proved to be the decisive turning point of the entire match.

If there is one player who has completely defined this series so far, it is undoubtedly Root. Following his unbeaten 76 in Birmingham, he backed it up with this unbeaten 99 at Cardiff, meaning India has failed to dismiss him even once in the series.

Root carries England

Root has single-handedly carried England’s batting in this series, especially considering that the next best score in the entire England innings was a mere 30 runs.

India’s bowling plans also suffered a major setback during the game. All-rounder Washington Sundar was unavailable to bowl after suffering a hamstring injury while batting, severely reducing India’s defensive options.

England quickly sensed the opportunity presented by the depleted bowling attack. Root ensured that the hosts never let the advantage slip away, expertly guiding them across the finish line.

Speculation around Rohit’s retirement

With the series tied at 1-1, everything now comes down to a single, high-stakes decider match at Lord’s.

There is a strong buzz among the media contingent that the upcoming ODI at Lord’s might actually be Rohit’s final appearance in One Day Internationals, and subsequently, the final appearance of his international career.

While it remains strictly speculation at this point, fans will be desperately hoping that one of India’s greatest modern stalwarts can go out with a memorable, big knock if this is indeed his final bow. Either way, there is immense pride and a series victory to play for at the home of cricket.