England secured a hard-fought four-wicket victory over India in Cardiff, levelling the ODI series at 1-1. Chasing 234, the hosts stumbled to 94 for four before Joe Root's classy unbeaten 99 anchored the innings. Gus Atkinson provided late fireworks with an unbeaten 23 as England reached the target with 35 balls to spare.
Earlier, Jofra Archer (three for 47) led England's bowling attack to dismiss India for 233 in 44 overs. Virat Kohli top-scored with 65 from 66 balls, while Shreyas Iyer made 66. Atkinson contributed with three for 50, including the key wicket of Iyer.
Root's 133-ball vigil, featuring nine boundaries, was the cornerstone of England's reply. He received support from Will Jacks (30) and Atkinson, whose pulled boundary secured the win. The victory sets up a series decider at Lord's on Sunday.
England captain Harry Brook's dismissal for 16, attempting a ramp shot, was a moment of frustration, but Root's calming presence ensured the chase remained on track. The win was a much-needed boost for England, who sit eighth in the ODI rankings.
