Team India crash out of Tri-Series without a Win

Team India, which failed to win a single match in the tri-series in Australia, finally crashed out of the tournament, with a three-wicket loss to England at Perth today. India were close to a victory while defending a modest total of 200, but Taylor and Butler took the game away from them. It was a big blow to India’s preparations ahead of World Cup, which will kick off on February 15.

Earlier, India had bowled out for 200 in 48.1 overs. At one stage, they were 83/0. Rahane (73), Dhawan (38) and Shami (25) were the top scorers. Finn took three wickets, while Woakes, Broad and Moeen took two wickets each.

In reply, England were 66/5 at one stage and staring at defeat. But, Taylor (82) and Butler (67) added 125 runs for the sixth wicket to take the game away from India. England reached 201/7 in 46.5 overs to win the match by three wickets. For India, Binny took three wickets, while Mohit Sharma took two wickets. James Taylor was declared ‘Man of the Match’.

England will take on Australia in the final. In the tri-series, India lost three matches (two to England and one to Australia). Another match against Australia was abandoned due to rains, which helped India get two points.