England suffered a crushing 142-run defeat against India in Ahmedabad, sealing a 3-0 ODI series whitewash. The tourists, already plagued by injuries, now face concerns over opener Ben Duckett, who sustained a groin injury while fielding. Duckett will undergo medical assessments in Abu Dhabi, raising fears he could be the second batter ruled out of the upcoming Champions Trophy.
England had already lost Jacob Bethell to a hamstring tear, prompting the recall of Tom Banton after a three-year international absence. The hectic schedule in India, with matches every third day and limited practice sessions, has been blamed for the spate of injuries. Former players Ravi Shastri and Kevin Pietersen criticised England's work ethic, though claims of only one practice session all tour were dismissed.
On the field, England managed to dismiss India for the first time on the tour, but the hosts still posted 356. Captain Jos Buttler opted to field first, citing potential dew and the need to practice chasing before the Champions Trophy. Fast bowler Mark Wood impressed with figures of 2 for 45, but was forced off after his initial spell due to heat exhaustion. Adil Rashid took 4 for 64, including his 400th international wicket, but the rest of the attack struggled, with Gus Atkinson conceding over nine runs per over for the second consecutive match.
England now face a daunting task to overturn their form ahead of the Champions Trophy, where they open against Australia in Lahore on February 22. The injury to Duckett could force a difficult selection decision, with Jonny Bairstow and Will Jacks overlooked in favour of Banton and Sam Curran.
