India seeks series win in 2nd ODI vs England in Cardiff

India will aim to clinch their three-match ODI series against England when the teams meet for the second match at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff on Thursday, July 16. The visitors lead the series 1-0 following a convincing six-wicket victory in the opening match at Edgbaston on Tuesday.

Captain Shubman Gill, who led the chase with a composed 80 before retiring hurt due to severe cramps, has confirmed his fitness and is expected to lead an unchanged Indian side. His presence is considered crucial, both as a tone-setting opener and as the team's leader. India's win was built on a strong all-round performance, with Axar Patel named Player of the Match for his four-wicket haul and an unbeaten half-century. Washington Sundar also contributed a vital fifty, while Jasprit Bumrah spearheaded the pace attack with control.

England, captained by Harry Brook, must win to keep the series alive and force a decider at Lord's on July 19. The hosts showed resilience in Birmingham through Joe Root's unbeaten 76 and a half-century from Liam Dawson, but a top-order collapse and a bowling attack that failed to defend 259 were significant concerns. The team has been bolstered by the return of fast bowler...