'We weren't ruthless enough' - England lose T20 series after defeat to India

The Old Trafford faithful were left with a familiar sting of disappointment as England's women's team succumbed to a six-wicket defeat against India, relinquishing the T20 series with a match still to play. The outcome prompted a candid admission from captain Tammy Beaumont, who lamented her side's inability to deliver a knockout blow, stating plainly, "We weren't ruthless enough." This sentiment encapsulates a series where moments of brilliance from England were too often overshadowed by an inability to seize control and dictate terms, particularly in crucial phases of the game.

Having posted a seemingly competitive total of 155 for 6 on a pitch that offered a fair balance between bat and ball, England's bowlers began their defence with promise, securing early breakthroughs that suggested a tight contest was in the offing. However, India's middle order, spearheaded by a composed partnership that weathered the initial storm, steadily chipped away at the target. What followed was a masterclass in calculated aggression and intelligent running between the wickets, exposing England's fielding frailties and a lack of consistent pressure. Crucial dropped catches at pivotal moments, coupled with a couple of misfields that conceded easy boundaries, allowed India to maintain their required run-rate without undue panic. These were precisely the moments where Beaumont's call for ruthlessness was most acutely missed; opportunities to tighten the screw and build unassailable pressure slipped away, allowing the visitors to build momentum and ultimately cross the finish line with an over to spare.