Bethell Stars as England Clinch T20 Series Against India on Sooryavanshi's Debut

England edged out India by four wickets in a thrilling second T20 international at Old Trafford on Saturday, spoiling the debut of 15-year-old Indian prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

Sooryavanshi, who led the Indian Premier League in runs this season, showed glimpses of his talent with two sixes in a quickfire 14 off 10 balls. However, it was England's Jacob Bethell who stole the spotlight, smashing an unbeaten 76 from 46 deliveries to guide England to victory with an over to spare. Sam Curran also played a crucial role, taking 3-33, his best T20 international figures on home soil.

Old Trafford marked a historic occasion as Sooryavanshi became India's youngest cricketer at 15 years and 99 days, breaking Sachin Tendulkar's long-standing record. Despite initial nerves against debutant Josh Tongue and Jofra Archer, he managed to hit boundaries, including a six off Tongue. His promising innings ended when he was stumped by Jos Buttler off the bowling of Will Jacks after scoring 14.

India had posted a competitive 190-7 in their 20 overs, with contributions from Abhishek Sharma (43), Ishan Kishan (49), captain Shreyas Iyer (37), and Tilak Varma (24). Arshdeep Singh provided India with a dream start, dismissing England's openers Phil Salt and Jos Buttler for ducks in the first over. However, England's chase was anchored by Bethell's explosive knock, which included sixes off Ravi Bishnoi from free hits, turning the tide of the match.