Englandís women clinch the fifth ODI against India

By Sam Dixon

Kent stars Lydia Greenway (pictured) and Tammy Beaumont played as England women secured a thrilling consolation victory over India women in the final game of their ODI series in Mumbai.

The two-wicket victory means the series finished 3-2 to the Indians as the two sides embark on a three-match Twenty20 series starting on Thursday.

England rested captain Charlotte Edwards and as India batted first they were immediately reduced to 26 for four as opening bowlers Katherine Brunt and Nicky Shaw ripped through the top order. However, a ninety-run stand between Mithali Raj and Harmanpreet Kaur steadied the Indian ship, before Brunt returned to dismiss Raj for fifty; caught behind by Beaumont. Soniya Dabir joined Kaur at the crease and another healthy stand of 61 enabled India to reach 206 for nine of their allotted overs. Kaur made 84 while Dabir was unbeaten on 31. Beaumont complimented her catch with a stumping to dismiss Rumeli Dhar for five, off the bowling of Jenny Gunn. Shaw“s figures of three for 34 impressed for England.

In reply, everyone at the top of the English order chipped in with runs. Opener Heather Knight made 49 and by the time Greenway was dismissed for an enterprising 26, England were well set at 129 for four. India did though continue to take wickets at regular intervals and the final task was set at 46 runs to win off the final seven overs with four wickets in hand. In the end cameo knocks from Danielle Wyatt, 28 not out off 26 balls, and Danielle Hazell (18), saw England home with a ball to spare.

Picture:Getty Images