England produced a strong all-round performance to defeat India by four wickets in the second One-Day International at Sophia Gardens on Thursday, leveling the three-match series 1-1.

Chasing a target of 234, England reached the winning total in the 45th over with four wickets to spare, thanks to a composed unbeaten innings from Joe Root.

India Bowled Out for 233

After being asked to bat first, India struggled to build lasting partnerships and were bowled out for 233 in 44 overs.

Shreyas Iyer was India's highest scorer with 66 runs, while Virat Kohli added 65. Despite their efforts, the visitors were unable to post a bigger total against a disciplined England bowling attack.

Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson starred with the ball, claiming three wickets each, while Saqib Mahmood contributed two wickets to restrict India's batting line-up.

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Joe Root Leads England's Chase

England's chase was anchored by Joe Root, who remained unbeaten on 99 and narrowly missed out on a century. His calm and controlled innings ensured the hosts comfortably reached the target and squared the series.

Root's match-winning knock earned him the Player of the Match award.

India's Bowling Effort

India's bowlers struggled to defend the modest total, although Gurnoor Brar impressed by taking two wickets. England maintained control throughout the chase and avoided any late collapse to secure victory.

Series Decider at Lord's

With the series now tied at 1-1, both teams will head to the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground in London for the decisive third ODI on Sunday.

The final match will determine the winner of the three-match series and is expected to be a closely contested encounter between the two sides.