England leveled the three-match ODI series against India 1-1 after securing an eight-wicket victory in a rain-affected second ODI at Lord's on Saturday, July 19, 2025. The match was initially delayed by four hours due to heavy rain and a damp outfield, which resulted in the game being reduced to 29 overs per side.
After winning the toss, England chose to bowl first. India's batting lineup struggled against the English spinners and were restricted to 143-8 in their allotted overs. Smriti Mandhana (42) and Deepti Sharma (30*) were the only batters to offer some resistance. Sophie Ecclestone was named Player of the Match for her impressive figures of 3-27 from six overs. She dismissed Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur, and Richa Ghosh.
India's start was shaky, with Pratika Rawal falling early to Em Arlott. Smriti Mandhana and Harleen Deol attempted to stabilize the innings, but Ecclestone's stunning catch off her own bowling ended Deol's innings at 16. Ecclestone further compounded India's woes by dismissing captain Harmanpreet Kaur. The English spinners continued to dominate, with Charlie Dean removing Jemimah Rodrigues, and Ecclestone trapping Richa Ghosh LBW, leaving India at 72-5. Smriti Mandhana's resilient innings was cut short by Linsey Smith, who also dismissed Arundhati Reddy. Deepti Sharma's unbeaten 30 helped India reach a total of 143.
England's chase was interrupted by another rain delay, which led to a revised target of 115 in 24 overs, according to the DLS method. Tammy Beaumont and Amy Jones then guided England to victory, reaching 116-2 with 18 balls to spare. Beaumont's 34 off 35 balls provided a strong start, while Jones remained unbeaten on 46 off 57 balls. Nat Sciver-Brunt contributed 21 before being dismissed by Kranti Goud. Sophia Dunkley sealed the victory with a boundary.
England's spinners played a crucial role in dismantling the Indian batting lineup. Ecclestone's three wickets were instrumental in restricting India to a below-par total. Amy Jones's composed innings ensured England comfortably reached the revised target.
The series now stands level at 1-1, with the final and deciding ODI scheduled for Tuesday at Chester-le-Street.