Cardiff: Joe Root played a masterclass in anchoring to guide England to a hard-fought four-wicket victory over India in Cardiff, levelling the three-match series at 1-1 and forcing a decisive final match at Lord’s on Sunday.

On a tricky, two-paced surface at Sophia Gardens, England’s target of 234 initially looked far from secure. The hosts stumbled early in their chase, slipping to a perilous 8-2 and later 94-4 inside the 20th over. Jasprit Bumrah struck with the very first ball of the innings to dismiss Ben Duckett for a golden duck.

However, Root proved to be England’s calming presence. Facing the second ball of the innings, the 35-year-old put on a batting masterclass, scoring an unbeaten 99 runs off 133 deliveries. Root combined with Will Jacks for a decisive 72-run partnership that broke the back of the chase.

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Though Root fell agonisingly short of his 21st ODI century when Gus Atkinson hit the winning runs to leave him stranded on 99, England comfortably got over the line with 35 balls to spare. Reflecting on the gritty victory, Root remarked to the media: "Getting the win is what it's all about. Sometimes you have to scrap and win ugly."

Earlier, England’s captain Harry Brook had won the toss and elected to field, a decision vindicated by a clinical bowling performance that skittled India for 233 in 44 overs. India looked comfortable at 104-1 before Jofra Archer sparked a dramatic collapse, picking up 3-47. Shreyas Iyer top-scored for the tourists with a lively 66, while Virat Kohli added a fluent 65, but India’s lower-middle order folded under pressure, losing their last seven wickets for just 55 runs.

The two sides now head to Lord's for what promises to be a thrilling series decider on Sunday.