ENG vs IND: Root's unbeaten 99 powers England to 4 wicket win vs India
Joe Root anchored England's chase with an unbeaten 99 as the hosts defeated India by four wickets in the second ODI to level the three-match series here on Thursday.
 "ENG vs IND: Root's unbeaten 99 powers England to 4 wicket win vs India")
Joe Root produced another batting masterclass, finishing agonisingly short of a century with an unbeaten 99, as England defeated India by four wickets in the second ODI at Sophia Gardens on Thursday to level the three-match series 1-1.
Chasing a modest target of 234, the former England captain held the innings together with a composed knock, ensuring the hosts crossed the line with 35 balls to spare. Root's calm presence at the crease proved decisive as England recovered from a few early setbacks to complete the chase at 235/6 in 44.1 overs.
Earlier, England's bowlers laid the platform after captain Harry Brook opted to field first. India looked well placed at 178/3, thanks to fluent half-centuries from Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer, before suffering a dramatic collapse that saw them lose their remaining seven wickets for just 55 runs.
Kohli continued his return to form with a stylish 65 off 66 deliveries, striking eight boundaries and looking in complete control during his partnership with Iyer. The latter countered England's short-ball tactics impressively, scoring 66 from 71 balls while keeping India's innings on course for a total well above 250.
However, England's pace attack turned the contest on its head. Jofra Archer once again troubled the Indian batters with his pace and bounce, returning figures of 3/47, while Gus Atkinson matched him with 3/50. Saqib Mahmood also chipped in with crucial breakthroughs as India's middle and lower order folded under sustained pressure.
From a commanding position, India were bowled out for just 233 in the 44th over, leaving England with a manageable chase.
Root ensured there were no late hiccups, expertly rotating the strike and punishing loose deliveries to guide England home. The victory cancelled out India's six-wicket win in the opening ODI at Birmingham, setting up a winner-takes-all series decider at Lord's on Sunday.
With momentum now shifting towards the hosts, both teams head into the final match knowing the series is still firmly up for grabs.
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