Abhishek, Iyer rescue India before rain spoils: 1st T20 (Durham)

India made an impressive start to the five-match T20I series against England despite being denied victory by persistent rain at Chester-le-Street.

After slipping to 6/2 inside the opening two overs, the visitors responded through a dazzling counterattack from Abhishek Sharma, whose 59 from just 24 balls shifted the momentum decisively.

Captain Shreyas Iyer anchored the innings with a fluent 68, while Shivam Dube’s unbeaten 42 from 21 deliveries provided the finishing flourish as India posted a challenging 189/7. Saqib Mahmood was England’s standout bowler with figures of 3/33, while Sam Curran and Adil Rashid each claimed a wicket.

England never had the opportunity to mount a chase as rain, which had already interrupted India’s innings, returned before the reply could begin and refused to relent.

The no-result leaves the 5 match series level at 0-0.

India 189-7 (20 overs): Iyer 68 (47), Sharma 59 (24), Dube 42* (21); Mahmood 3-33.,England: did not bat. Match abandoned.

July 2026.