The numbers are ugly as the Champions Trophy approaches. England’s defeat in this final clash with India was their 16th in 23 one‑day internationals since the start of the 2023 World Cup. The one-time world‑beaters have long lost their winning habit, their latest offering a 142-run defeat in Ahmedabad, Rohit Sharma’s team easing to a 3-0 series victory. If that’s not brutal enough, in the aftermath Jos Buttler was having to discuss how much his side trained on the tour.
A chase of 357 could not be ruled out when England were 126 for two inside 18 overs, Joe Root building, Tom Banton beginning to bash. But an India attack built on variety instigated the collapse, the wickets shared around, Banton and Gus Atkinson joint top‑scorers with 38.
