England win T20I in Manchester after Bishnoi 29-run over

India suffered a four-wicket defeat to England in the second T20 International in Manchester on Saturday, July 4, allowing the hosts to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. The match turned dramatically during a costly 17th over bowled by leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, which swung the momentum decisively in England's favor.

Chasing a target of 191, England appeared to be under pressure, needing 49 runs from the final four overs with four wickets in hand. Bishnoi's over, however, yielded 29 runs, including two no-balls that resulted in free hits. England batter Jacob Bethell capitalized by smashing both free-hit deliveries for sixes, shifting the complexion of the chase. Bethell finished unbeaten on 76 from 46 balls, steering his side to victory with one over to spare.

Indian players and analysts identified that over as the pivotal moment. Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan said the free hits allowed Bethell to relieve pressure and play with greater freedom. Former India wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel, speaking in a post-match analysis, explained that before that over, Bethell was struggling to accelerate but the errors gave him a license to attack without fear of dismissal.